Accident Overview
On July 3, 2021, about 1230 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28-151 airplane, registration N181BW, was substantially damaged during a takeoff accident near Pottsboro, Texas. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The flight was conducted as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
Pilot Report and Sequence of Events
The pilot initially reported that she performed a preflight inspection, calculated aircraft performance, and obtained weather from a nearby airport. During the takeoff roll, engine instruments were in the green, but the airplane did not gain airspeed as expected. Realizing the aircraft would not clear trees, she attempted to abort the takeoff. However, the airplane continued past the runway end and impacted several small trees before stopping.
In later statements, the pilot added she planned a combined short and soft field takeoff. She started the takeoff roll with full power but did not achieve the power she was used to. She noted it was loud and bumpy on the grass runway and was unsure if the engine was making unusual sounds or sputtering. She reported that they lifted off in ground effect but experienced a decrease in power, landing back on the ground past the runway end.
Runway Information
The runway, according to AirNav.com, was oriented 18-36, turf, 2,375 feet long by 75 feet wide, at an estimated altitude of 725 feet. The responding FAA inspector noted that the runway surface was very rough, and the grass height was “okay.”
Aircraft Damage and Performance Data
The FAA examination revealed that the right wing had separated from the fuselage, and the left wing sustained substantial damage about mid-span after impact with a tree. The airplane performance tables indicated a takeoff roll of 1,400 to 1,800 feet on a paved, level runway at maximum gross weight, with no correction factors for grass or rough surfaces. The airplane was modified with an O-360 engine, but revised performance tables were not available.
Engine Monitor and Test Run
The airplane was equipped with a J.P. Instruments EDM-900 engine monitor. Data from July 3, 2021, corresponding to the accident flight, showed engine rpm increasing from about 2,260 to 2,330 over 30 seconds, then a sudden drop just before data ended.
On August 23, 2021, an engine examination and test run were conducted. The fuselage (minus wings) was strapped to a trailer. After visual inspection revealing no abnormalities, the engine started without hesitation, warmed up, and passed magneto and carburetor heat checks. Full throttle was applied, and the engine responded normally. When leaned, a slight rpm increase was observed. Post-test data showed maximum rpm rising from about 2,200 to 2,323 before throttle reduction. No abnormalities were noted, and the engine appeared to make rated power.