Incident Summary
A pilot attempted to transport by-pass mail from Nome to Gambell, Alaska. During the takeoff roll, the airplane accelerated normally until rotation. When the pilot rotated the nose to lift off, the airplane pitched up abruptly. The pilot applied full forward pressure on the control yoke while adjusting the pitch trim to nose down. Subsequently, the airplane rolled to the left, and the pilot used the rudders to level the wings before impact.
Weight and Balance
Information from the company, the FAA, and the post office indicated that the airplane weighed 10,114 pounds at the time of takeoff. The certificated maximum gross weight was 10,100 pounds. A weight and balance calculation, based on company data and placarded limits, showed a center of gravity of 121.9 inches. The center of gravity limits specified in the airplane manual were 113 to 120.5 inches.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the elevator trim indicator was indicating full nose up trim.