Accident Summary
A tailwheel-equipped airplane sustained substantial damage during a takeoff accident. The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, at about 40 knots airspeed with full flaps and approximately 50 percent of the 900-foot runway remaining, the airplane lifted off and began to climb. It climbed above the tree line but subsequently descended into ground effect. The pilot attempted to clear the trees ahead, but the airplane stalled. The left wing dropped, and the airplane descended below the tree line, touched down on the main landing gear, collided with trees, and came to rest inverted.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that he could have utilized more of the runway surface and held the airplane on the ground to achieve a more desirable airspeed. He also reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Aircraft Information
The pilot reported that the airplane was equipped with a tailwheel. The pilot operating handbook does not suggest the use of full flap application during short-field takeoffs.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing lift struts.