Accident Details
On July 18, 2021, at about 0850 mountain daylight time, a Beech 35-C33 airplane, registration N18AR, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain near Vance Brand Airport (LMO) in Longmont, Colorado. The pilot and passenger sustained serious and minor injuries, respectively. The flight was operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, the preflight inspection and engine run-up were normal. In accordance with high-density altitude procedures, the fuel mixture was leaned before takeoff from the 4,799-ft-long runway. The pilot rotated at 85 mph and initiated a climb. The airspeed and climb rate were not normal. Uncertain whether the airplane could clear a house along the departure path, the pilot decided to execute a precautionary landing. The landing gear was retracted, and a right turn was entered to avoid the house. The airplane touched down and slid to a stop on its belly.
Damage and Examination
The airplane impacted a hayfield and came to rest about 1/3 mile from the departure end of the runway. The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage consistent with the impact sequence. Post-recovery examinations of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a loss of engine power.
Weather and Performance
Based on the 0855 weather observation at LMO, the calculated density altitude for the takeoff was 6,804 ft. Airplane performance data indicated that the expected takeoff distance to clear a 50-ft obstacle was about 2,900 ft, and the expected initial rate of climb was about 780 ft per minute. The pilot reported previous flight experience at high-density altitude airports, including flight instruction for such operations.