What happened
A pilot with 238 hours of experience attempted to depart a 1,900-foot private grass airstrip in a 125 horsepower single-engine airplane. To utilize a very light headwind, the pilot elected a northerly departure heading, despite being aware of tall trees at the end of the runway. During the takeoff roll, the pilot extended the flaps to the first notch as the aircraft accelerated through 60 mph. The aircraft rotated at 60 mph and appeared to initiate a climb.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered sinking air and began to settle into the tall trees located near the departure end of the airstrip. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was at an estimated weight near its maximum takeoff weight of 1,800 pounds. The field elevation was approximately 1,073 feet, but the calculated density altitude was 3,122 feet. Nearby weather observations reported calm winds.
All four occupants—the pilot and three passengers—were not injured and were able to exit the aircraft unassisted. There was no post-crash fire.
Findings
The investigation noted that the 1951-vintage fabric covered airplane was not equipped with a stall warning indicator. The pilot reported no anomalies regarding the engine or flight controls prior to the impact.