Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that during takeoff, everything appeared normal until a yellow warning light illuminated. He observed the letters "hydr..." on the light and became concerned about the landing gear. He decided to abort the takeoff, reducing power and holding back pressure on the yoke. The airplane became airborne momentarily. The pilot then intentionally directed the airplane left over the grass. As the airplane decelerated, he saw a taxiway sign ahead, the stall warning horn sounded, and the airplane settled onto the taxiway sign. He pulled the yoke full aft, applied right brake, and the airplane impacted a ditch.
Weight and Balance
The pilot stated that before the flight he performed weight and balance calculations. He noted the airplane was in excess of 300 lbs over the maximum gross weight and was "heavy aft." The airplane, a 6-seat model, had 7 persons on board: one person in each seat and an additional person sitting on the floor.
Post-Accident Examination
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported that evidence and testimony indicated that during the takeoff, the left wing and nose wheel lifted, and the pilot lost directional control. The airplane veered off the runway, collided with a sign, crossed a taxiway and a ditch, and came to a stop in front of the terminal parking area. The inspector added that a postaccident examination revealed no warning lights noted. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.