Accident Details
The pilot of an agricultural aircraft was performing his sixth chemical application sortie of the day. The airplane was loaded with a full complement of 500 gallons of chemicals, bringing it close to its maximum gross weight. The takeoff was attempted from a runway measuring 2,700 feet in length. As the takeoff roll progressed, the aircraft did not attain rotation speed before nearing the end of the runway. In an effort to become airborne, the pilot raised the nose to takeoff attitude. The airplane briefly lifted off the ground but then settled back down, striking a barbwire fence and an irrigation ditch located beyond the runway end.
Damage
The collision caused substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and elevator. A subsequent examination revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have prevented normal operation.
Witness Account
An agricultural pilot who observed the takeoff reported that the departing aircraft had a 6-knot tail wind component.
The accident occurred during the pilot's sixth flight of the day, but no further information regarding time or environmental conditions was provided.