Accident Overview
The pilot initiated an aborted takeoff after the airspeed did not increase above 40 knots. To decelerate, the pilot pulled back on the yoke and applied the brakes. The airplane subsequently bounced off the ground two or three times.
Landing Gear and Propeller Damage
During contact with the runway, the landing gear collapsed and the propeller struck the runway surface. This resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
Witness Observations
Witnesses interviewed by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that the airplane rose to an altitude of approximately 30 to 40 feet before descending back to the runway. They observed three bounces during the sequence.
Inspection Findings
The FAA inspector calculated a density altitude of 7,700 feet and determined that the airplane's weight was near its maximum takeoff weight. No mechanical anomalies or failures were identified with the airplane, engine, or related systems prior to the accident.