Accident Overview
On August 7, approximately 1100 mountain daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, registration N4372J, was substantially damaged during takeoff from a grass airstrip near Glenwood, New Mexico. The aircraft was registered to and operated by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was being conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured.
Sequence of Events
The cross-country flight originated at Negrito, New Mexico, with a destination of Beaverhead Airstrip near Glenwood. The pilot reported that he was engaged in back country flying and landed to the northeast at what he believed was Beaverhead Airstrip. In reality, he had landed at Shepley Ranch Airstrip, elevation 7,400 feet mean sea level. The pilot noted that the field was not maintained and tall grass was present along the runway.
After landing, the pilot turned around and initiated a takeoff to the southwest. During the takeoff roll, the airplane failed to gain altitude and subsequently collided with a fence and impacted terrain. The pilot reported that the temperature was 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit).
Investigation
Post-accident examination confirmed flight control continuity, and no anomalies were found with the airplane.