Departure and Initial Climb
A pilot departed from a private, dirt airstrip located at an elevation of 6,830 ft mean sea level. The airstrip was 1,600 ft long. Prior to takeoff, the pilot set the wing flaps to 10° and trimmed the airplane. During the takeoff roll, the pilot advanced the throttle and reported that the airplane accelerated well. The pilot anticipated becoming airborne near the first of two step downs along the runway, which was approximately 1,000 ft from the start.
Decision to Continue
Upon reaching the step down, the pilot observed that the airspeed was low. However, believing that he had passed a safe shutdown point, he chose to continue the takeoff, expecting to be able to clear power lines located near the departure end of the runway.
Impact and Damage
The airplane became airborne near the departure end of the runway but was unable to maintain a sufficient climb rate to clear the power lines. It struck two sets of power lines, then impacted an embankment, causing the main landing gear to collapse. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Weather and Other Conditions
The automated weather observation station located 13 miles northeast of the accident site reported, about 7 minutes before the accident, wind variable at 3 knots, clear skies, temperature 68°F, dew point 30°F, altimeter setting 29.96 inHg. The calculated density altitude was 8,985 ft. The pilot noted the prevailing wind direction before landing and, although light and variable, he would be departing with a tailwind. The pilot departed to the southeast.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.