What happened
On January 10, 2009, a Piper PA-32-300 was performing its third flight of the day from Sucúa to Cangaime. The aircraft was carrying one passenger and approximately 386 kg of cargo. During the takeoff roll on runway 17, the pilot initiated the maneuver but was unable to complete it after the aircraft briefly lifted off and then made sudden contact with the runway again.
Attempting to abort the takeoff, the pilot applied brakes and retracted the flaps. However, the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining runway length and exited the right side of the pavement. The aircraft traveled through high grass and struck a small mound of earth, which caused the left main landing gear to detach. The fuselage subsequently slid along the terrain, striking a tree that damaged the left wing and aileron. There were no injuries to the two occupants, though the aircraft sustained significant structural damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's weight and balance, maintenance records, and the pilot's performance. The aircraft was operating at a takeoff weight of approximately 1,545 kg, which was within its maximum allowable limit. Investigators found that the engine and fuel systems were functioning normally and ruled out mechanical failure or fuel contamination.
The board focused on the runway conditions and the pilot's actions. While meteorological conditions were ideal, the runway surface was covered in high, wet grass, which reduced braking effectiveness. The investigation also analyzed the pilot's configuration of the flaps and his manual handling of the aircraft during the rotation phase.