Accident Summary
An airline transport pilot was conducting a personal cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The aircraft was a tailwheel and ski-equipped airplane. The takeoff was from a snow-covered private airstrip.
Pilot Account
In a written statement dated January 5, 2009, the pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, the airplane's engine appeared to hesitate and possibly lose power. He aborted the takeoff but, due to rough terrain, was unable to get the tail of the airplane back on the ground quickly enough to slow the airplane. When the tail did come down, the fuselage struck a low tree, resulting in substantial damage to the tail section.
Investigation Details
During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge on December 21, 2008, the pilot did not mention any engine issue.