Accident Details
The private pilot and three passengers attempted to depart from a turf runway measuring 2,200 feet in length. After lifting off the ground, the pilot observed that the airplane was not accelerating and it subsequently settled back to the ground. Concerned about clearing a shed located off the end of the runway, the pilot aborted the takeoff. During the abort, the airplane departed the runway and entered a valley, where both wings sustained damage.
Takeoff Performance
The takeoff performance chart for the airplane, which was close to its maximum gross weight, predicted a ground roll of 600 feet and a takeoff distance of 1,600 feet. This chart was based on a dry runway and did not include a correction factor for turf conditions. The turf runway conditions likely affected the airplane's performance during the attempted takeoff.
Pilot Statement
Following the accident, the pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane. He further indicated that he should not have attempted to take off on the short turf runway.