What happened
During the pre-takeoff phase at a private turf airstrip, the pilot performed adjustments to the fuel pump of the left engine. As the aircraft began its takeoff roll, the left engine experienced a period of surging. Despite this mechanical irregularity, the pilot proceeded with the takeoff attempt.
After traveling roughly 1,000 feet along the runway, the aircraft became airborne. In an effort to clear trees located on the left side of the airstrip, the pilot applied back pressure on the yoke. This maneuver caused the aircraft to drift toward the left side of the runway. The pilot later noted that the aircraft entered a stall during this maneuver and indicated that the correct response should have been to push the yoke forward to increase airspeed.
It is noted that the takeoff strip measured only 1,400 feet in length, whereas the Pilot Operating Handbook for the aircraft type specifies a required takeoff roll of approximately 2,500 feet on dry, paved surfaces.
Findings
- The pilot's attempt to clear obstacles resulted in a loss of airspeed and a subsequent stall.
- The left engine was experiencing fuel delivery issues via the fuel pump during the takeoff roll.