Accident Details
A private pilot undergoing instruction (PUI) and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were conducting a mountain checkout flight. The purpose of the flight was to allow the PUI to rent the airplane. Prior to the flight, the CFI and PUI obtained a full weather briefing. The CFI had visited the airport on many occasions.
Weather and Airport Conditions
The flight crew listened to the weather observation from a nearby mountain pass, which reported winds from 090 degrees at 8 knots. Upon overflying the airport, they observed the windsock indicating calm winds and elected to land to the south. During the approach to the mountain airport, the CFI noted a light bump over the approach end of the runway. The runway was 2,875 feet long and 30 feet wide.
Takeoff Preparation
After landing, the CFI and PUI calculated takeoff distances and determined the density altitude. The windsock still indicated calm winds, so they decided to depart to the north, which was the calm wind preferred departure route. The temperature was 18 degrees Celsius. They configured the airplane for a short field takeoff with 15 degrees of flaps. While holding the brakes, the PUI added full power and began the takeoff roll. The CFI noted that maximum static power was being achieved.
Accident Sequence
The PUI rotated the airplane at 50 knots, with a target speed of 56 knots. Approximately 15-20 feet above ground level, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the right. The CFI assumed control of the airplane. The airplane then sank. The CFI decided to discontinue the takeoff. As the airplane descended, he observed a newly installed guardrail at the end of the runway. He applied additional power to clear the guardrail and land in an area beyond it. The airplane slowed and subsequently impacted a ditch, causing it to nose over.
Aftermath
The article does not specify injuries, fatalities, or aircraft damage details beyond the nose-over.