Accident Sequence
The pilot conducted a pre-takeoff engine run-up and reported no anomalies. After the run-up, he set 15 degrees of flaps and adjusted pitch trim for takeoff. Receiving takeoff clearance, he taxied onto the runway and aligned with the centerline, with 3,300 feet of runway remaining. He held the brakes while increasing engine power to maximum takeoff power.
The takeoff roll proceeded normally until reaching 90 knots, when the pilot attempted to rotate for liftoff. Applying aft control column pressure did not result in the airplane becoming airborne. At 100 knots, having passed the halfway point on the runway without becoming airborne, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff.
He reduced engine throttle and applied maximum braking. However, the airplane was unable to stop before the end of the runway. During the overrun, the main landing gear collapsed, damaging the left wing and fuselage primary structure.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection of the runway revealed heavy tire skid marks, consistent with heavy braking, beginning 900 feet from the departure threshold and continuing until the airplane exited the runway. The airplane came to rest on its lower fuselage structure approximately 100 feet west of the extended centerline and about 250 feet from the departure threshold.
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. A postaccident inspection did not reveal any anomalies that would have prevented normal operation of the airplane or its engines.
Performance Data
Based on available airport and weather information, the airplane's pilot operating handbook (POH) indicated that the normal takeoff ground roll at a takeoff weight of 6,400 pounds, without flaps and without a headwind, was about 2,160 feet. The accelerate-stop distance under the same conditions was about 3,600 feet. The POH listed rotation speed as 115 mph (100 knots) and normal liftoff at 120 mph (104 knots). The handbook did not provide performance data for a 15-degree flap takeoff.