Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, resulting in a collision with trees.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot was departing from an off-airport site on a cross-country flight. According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll the airplane encountered a soft spot, which delayed the airplane's liftoff. He said that, following the delayed liftoff, he was unable to avoid trees near the departure end of the runway and that the right wing struck a tree before the airplane spun to the ground. The pilot reported that there were no known mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot was departing from an off-airport site on a personal cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The pilot said during the takeoff roll the airplane encountered a soft spot, which delayed the airplane's liftoff. He said following the delayed liftoff, he was unable to avoid trees near the departure end of the runway. He said the right wing struck a tree, and the airplane spun to the ground. The pilot said there were no known mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.