Incident Overview
A flight instructor reported that during a soft-field takeoff on a private 1,800-foot turf airstrip, the airplane experienced multiple lift-off and touchdown events before the takeoff was aborted. The instructor stated that with 10 degrees of flaps selected, the airplane's wheels lifted off the ground, prompting him to relax back pressure on the yoke. The airplane subsequently settled back onto the ground.
Sequence of Events
After the initial liftoff and touchdown, the airplane again lifted off and settled back onto the ground. At that point, the instructor decided to abort the takeoff by reducing power to idle. However, the airplane lifted off momentarily and settled onto the ground for a third time. The pilot then firmly applied the brakes, but the airplane overran the end of the runway.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall. The instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Statement
The flight instructor acknowledged that he was late in deciding to abort the takeoff.
Reference to FAA Guidance
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3B (2016) provides guidance on soft-field takeoffs. It notes that after becoming airborne, the pilot should gently lower the nose to allow acceleration while remaining in ground effect until sufficient climb airspeed is reached. The handbook warns that premature or steep climb attempts may cause the airplane to settle back onto the surface due to loss of ground effect.