Accident Overview
An aerial application flight ended in a runway excursion after the pilot encountered porpoising during the takeoff roll. The airplane subsequently collided with a three-strand wire fence and bounced across a dike before coming to a stop.
Pilot Background
The pilot reported that he had successfully flown five previous aerial application flights with loads at half capacity. Although the make and model of the airplane were new to him, he felt comfortable after accumulating approximately 15 flight hours at the time of the accident.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the airplane hit a bump about halfway down the runway and began to porpoise. The pilot stated that he started losing directional control and applied the brakes. After regaining control, the airplane was not aligned with the runway; however, he continued the takeoff, thinking that the airplane was going to fly. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface.
Collision and Damage
The airplane collided with a three-strand wire fence, which damaged the landing gear. The airplane then bounced across a dike and skidded to a stop. Both wings, both main landing gear, and the engine mount sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.