Takeoff Attempt
During a mountain flying training session, the flight instructor and private pilot receiving instruction conducted a high altitude takeoff. Pre-takeoff checks revealed no anomalies, and the mixture setting was double-checked. The proper high altitude takeoff procedures were reviewed. The pilot rotated at 70 knots after a ground roll of approximately 2,500 to 3,000 feet, consistent with prior performance calculations. The instructor stated she was looking outside to count runway stripes and observe the takeoff profile during the roll.
Climb Performance Issues
The pilot reported holding the airplane in ground effect to accelerate to a target speed of 96 knots. However, the airplane settled back to the runway and then lifted off again at 80 knots. By the time the airplane reached the end of the 11,021-foot runway, it was at an altitude of approximately 150 to 200 feet with an airspeed of 70 to 80 knots. As airspeed decayed, the pilot lowered the nose to avoid a stall.
Off-Field Landing
The pilot initiated an off-field landing, and the aircraft touched down in a wings-level attitude. Post-accident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Performance Calculations
The takeoff performance chart for the airplane indicated that under the atmospheric conditions present, a ground roll of approximately 1,300 feet was required with no obstacle, and a distance of about 2,000 feet was needed to take off and climb over a 50-foot obstacle. The calculated accelerate-stop distance was approximately 3,500 feet. The calculated rate of climb was about 1,050 feet per minute.
Pilot's Reflection
The pilot stated in the accident prevention section of the NTSB accident report that he could have aborted the takeoff; however, aborting may have incurred damage to the airplane.