Accident Overview
An airline transport pilot was conducting a passenger flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 135. During the takeoff roll, the pilot reported that the wind was from 290 to 300 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 27 knots. He elected to perform an intersection takeoff on runway 25 at its intersection with runway 29, rather than using the full length of runway 29.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, the airspeed did not develop as quickly as anticipated. With airspeed lagging and poor climb performance, he recognized that the airplane would not clear a ridge located at the end of the runway. He then initiated a right descending turn in an effort to maintain airspeed. However, the airplane impacted trees alongside the runway.
Damage
The pilot reported that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage as a result of the tree impact. He also stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from rising terrain during takeoff, resulting in collision with trees.