Accident Details
A private pilot and a passenger were conducting a takeoff from a 1,984-foot long, 30-foot wide grass runway. The airplane's flaps were extended to the 40-degree position during the attempt. The airplane impacted the tops of conifer trees located at the departure end of the runway and subsequently struck the ground. After impact, the airplane came to rest in an inverted position and was consumed in a post-impact fire.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved was a Cessna 172N. According to the Cessna 172N Information Manual, normal and short field takeoffs are performed with flaps up. The manual further states that the use of 10 degrees of flaps is reserved for takeoff from soft or rough fields, and that flap settings greater than 10 degrees are not approved for takeoff.
Examination
All major components of the airplane were accounted for at the accident site. Control cable continuity was established to all flight controls. No preimpact anomalies were noted with the engine that would have precluded it from producing power.