Accident Sequence
The pilot of an aerial application aircraft loaded the applicant and fuel prior to takeoff, resulting in the airplane being slightly over its maximum gross weight. The departure was from a private airstrip with a 2,600-foot long turf and asphalt runway, heading south toward a river. The automated weather report indicated wind from the north at four knots, creating a tailwind for the southward takeoff.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot rotated the airplane at the normal rotation point. The aircraft climbed to approximately three feet above the runway but then settled back onto the surface. With about one-quarter of the runway remaining, the pilot continued the takeoff, increased flaps, and verified that the throttle and propeller controls were full forward. A second rotation was attempted, and the airplane climbed to around four feet before again settling back to the ground.
Subsequently, the pilot dumped the application load in an effort to maintain control. The airplane flew a short distance to the opposite river bank, where it impacted terrain and slid on its belly.
Pilot Actions
Before the flight, the pilot performed preflight checks, including verifying adequate oil and sampling the fuel for water. The engine instrumentation was reported as normal prior to the takeoff roll. During the takeoff, the pilot increased flaps and confirmed full forward throttle and propeller controls after the first failed climb attempt.
Preflight and Conditions
The aircraft was loaded with applicant and fuel to a weight slightly above the maximum gross weight. The runway condition was turf and asphalt, and the wind was from the north at four knots, resulting in a tailwind during the southward takeoff. No other environmental or mechanical factors were reported.