Incident Overview
A pilot conducted a pre-flight inspection before departing from a paved runway measuring 2,000 feet in length. The takeoff was described as "normal," but the aircraft's climb rate was insufficient to clear trees located at the end of the runway. According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the airplane lifted off approximately 1,500 feet down the runway. Subsequently, the right wing struck a tree situated to the right of the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
The FAA inspector reported no mechanical anomalies with the aircraft. Compression was confirmed on all engine cylinders. Photographs of the tree involved in the incident indicated that it was located about 50 feet beyond the end of the runway and approximately 50 feet to the right of the runway centerline. The path straight out from the runway and to the left provided a relatively clear pathway.
Performance Data
Utilizing the ambient weather conditions, which included a 6-knot headwind, the only takeoff performance data available in the pilot's operating handbook indicated that the airplane's takeoff distance to clear a 50-foot obstacle should have been approximately 1,450 feet.