Flight Details
The pilot reported performing a short field takeoff with 10 degrees of flaps. The airplane gained speed slowly, lifted off in ground effect halfway down the runway, and climbed at 50–55 knots. Nearing the end of the runway, the pilot determined the airplane would not clear trees at the departure end. She reduced power and landed back on the runway “as quickly as possible.” Upon touchdown, brakes were applied, but the airplane overran the runway, went down a hill, and the landing gear struck piles of firewood logs and logging slash. The airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted.
The pilot stated the runway surface was a mixture of dirt, gravel, and some dry grass and weeds. The airplane’s weight at the time was estimated at 2,095 pounds, with 18 gallons of fuel, 175 pounds of gear, and two people (340 pounds). The rear seat had been removed to accommodate the gear.
Airport and Environment
Lake Wenatchee Airport in Leavenworth, Washington, has runways oriented east/west (09/27). The runway is 2,473 feet long and 100 feet wide, constructed of turf. Airport elevation is 1,939 feet. According to the FAA Airport Facility Directory, prior to use the Washington State Aviation Division should be contacted for facility information. The Washington State Department of Transportation Aviation division website noted that the airport has “some density altitude problem” on hot summer days and that trees surround the airport and are in close proximity to both approach ends. The airport is unattended.
Weather information was not fully recalled by the pilot. The closest reporting airport, Pangborn Memorial Airport (33 nautical miles southeast), recorded an ASOS observation at 1155 with temperature 28°C (82°F), dew point 08°C (46°F), and altimeter 29.88 inHg. The Safety Board investigator calculated density altitude as 3,186 feet.
Recommendation
In the recommendation section of the NTSB report, the pilot stated that she overestimated the capabilities of the airplane under the existing altitude, runway conditions, and height of trees at the end of the runway.