Accident Details
A pilot experienced an accident during takeoff from a field. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings and the rudder after it traveled off the runway, down an embankment, and came to rest inverted.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, he did not have the airplane properly configured for takeoff. During the takeoff roll, he took his hand off the throttle to extend a notch of flaps. Subsequently, the throttle lever moved out, reducing engine power. The pilot did not recognize the power reduction. Additionally, the elevator trim was set to a nose-down attitude, which the pilot also failed to notice before the airplane veered off the runway.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the rudder. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that the accident resulted from his improper configuration for takeoff and his failure to detect the throttle movement and the nose-down trim setting.