What happened
On the date of the incident, an aircraft was attempting to depart from a private unpaved airstrip located on Purple Hill Road, approximately 13.5 km north of London Airport, Ontario. The runway, consisting of grass, measured 2,400 feet in length. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft was unable to achieve sufficient lift to leave the ground. The aircraft subsequently veered off the strip and came to a stop in an adjacent cornfield.
As a result of the impact, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss. Both individuals on board sustained injuries during the event.
Findings
Following the accident, an observer noted smoke emanating from the landing gear area. The pilot indicated that the parking brake may have remained partially engaged during the takeoff attempt, which likely prevented the aircraft from reaching takeoff speed.