Incident Details
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was conducting a training flight with a student pilot. The CFI reported that they taxied to a grass strip runway for a departure demonstration. The student pilot was instructed to perform the takeoff. The student advanced the throttle, and full takeoff power was achieved, according to the CFI.
Sequence of Events
Approximately halfway down the runway, the airspeed reached the minimum rotation speed. The CFI noted that the runway began to upslope. As the airplane continued, the airspeed increased at a reduced rate, but the engine operated normally throughout. When the airplane reached the top of the slope, the airspeed increased to 60 mph, and the CFI called out “rotate.” The CFI assisted the student pilot with the rotation. The climbout appeared normal to the CFI.
Impact and Damage
Shortly after rotation, the airplane struck a power line located approximately 150 feet from the end of runway 28. The impact caused substantial damage to the airframe. The CFI reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Investigation
No further analysis or causal factors were provided by the source. The CFI’s account indicates that the takeoff and climb were conducted as described, with no reported abnormalities in aircraft performance prior to the power line strike.