What happened
During a takeoff from a grass/turf runway, the pilot-in-command failed to maintain the propeller control lever in the full forward position throughout the takeoff sequence. This error caused the aircraft to fail to lift off at the expected point on the runway.
As the aircraft did not perform as anticipated, the pilot did not abort the takeoff. Consequently, the aircraft achieved liftoff late, leading to a collision with several trees and a fence. Following the impact, the aircraft settled back onto the terrain, at which point all three landing gear components experienced a collapse.
Findings
- The pilot-in-command did not utilize a checklist during pre-takeoff or takeoff procedures.
- There was no evidence of any malfunction within the aircraft systems.
- The engine was capable of producing full power during the event.