What happened
During a nighttime departure from Atlanta-Fulton County-Brown Field Airport, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff sequence. However, the decision to cease the takeoff procedure was executed too late in the process. As a result, the aircraft overran the runway and collided with trees. The impact caused the plane to burst into flames, leading to the total destruction of the airframe. The pilot sustained serious injuries during the accident.
Findings
Investigations into the crash identified several critical issues regarding the aircraft's configuration and the pilot's preparation. The primary cause was the delayed action in aborting the takeoff, which led to the runway excursion and tree collision. Several contributing factors were documented:
- The aircraft was operating at a weight exceeding its maximum gross limit by at least 1,701 lbs.
- The center of gravity (CofG) was positioned 7.6 inches outside of the allowable limits.
- The pilot had only accumulated 22 flying hours following a 35-year hiatus from flying.
- Inadequate preparation prior to the flight was noted.
- There was insufficient familiarity with the specific aircraft type.
- Visibility was compromised by a dirty windshield and the presence of frost on the window.
- The aircraft had been improperly loaded for the flight.