Departure and Initial Flight
The pilot of a Piper PA-24-250 departed on runway 36. The windsock indicated a west wind, and the temperature was approximately 83 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot observed reduced climb performance during takeoff. After a local flight of about 15 minutes, the pilot returned for a full-stop landing.
Landing Attempt
Without rechecking the windsock, the pilot elected to again use runway 36. During the landing, the pilot reported that the airplane "wouldn't settle." He considered aborting the landing but decided against it, citing the airplane's position and the reduced climb performance experienced during the previous departure.
Post-Touchdown Sequence
After touching down, the pilot retracted the wing flaps to obtain maximum braking performance. However, because the airplane was equipped with hand-activated brakes, this action delayed brake application. At approximately 30 mph, the pilot steered the airplane off the right side of the runway to avoid running off the end and incurring more severe damage. The airplane continued down an embankment and was stopped by underbrush and trees about 250 feet beyond the runway end.
Eyewitness Account
According to an eyewitness, the airplane touched down on the last third of the runway, and the wind was from the south at the time of the event.