Accident Details
On May 26, 2012, at about 0703 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N9815D) was substantially damaged during a forced landing following takeoff from runway 18 at Pope Field Airport (GFD), Greenfield, Indiana. The pilot and front seat passenger sustained minor injuries, while the rear seat passenger was not injured. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that he taxied from the hangar at the south end of the airport to the north end, where runway 18 (a grass/turf strip measuring 2,165 by 150 feet) was located. An engine run-up, including a carburetor heat check, was conducted with no anomalies. Partial wing flaps were extended for takeoff. The taxi distance from the run-up to the takeoff position was about 200 feet, and the takeoff was not delayed. The ground roll was slightly longer than normal, which did not initially concern the pilot. After liftoff, the airplane did not accelerate as usual. The pilot cleared power lines but could not gain sufficient airspeed to climb. Concerned about stalling if he attempted to clear the approaching tree line, he chose to maintain controlled flight into the trees.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine and fuel system revealed no anomalies consistent with a partial loss of engine power.
Weather Conditions
At 0653, weather at Shelbyville Municipal Airport (GEZ), about 13 miles south, reported calm wind, clear sky, visibility 4 miles in mist, temperature 19°C, dew point 18°C, and altimeter 30.12 inHg. FAA guidance indicated a possibility of serious carburetor icing at glide power and moderate carburetor icing at cruise power under those conditions. The accident airport elevation was 895 feet, and density altitude was calculated at about 1,346 feet. The pilot reported calm wind at the airport.
Aircraft Performance Information
According to the owner's handbook, the required takeoff ground roll with wing flaps extended was 1,220 feet, and the takeoff distance over a 50-foot obstacle was 1,600 feet. No data were provided for takeoff with no flaps or partial flaps. The airplane had three flap positions: up, one-half down, and full down. The handbook stated that full flaps are used for maximum effect in landing and takeoffs, while half flaps provide intermediate results. The maximum gross weight was 2,000 pounds; the pilot's loading information indicated the airplane was operating below that weight.