Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper preflight inspection, and failure to remove heavy frost from the airplane prior to attempting a takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was attempting to takeoff from a public street, but the airplane would not climb, and struck a light pole, sustaining substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot stated that he failed to remove heavy frost from the airplane prior to the takeoff attempt. He also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was attempting to takeoff from a public street, but the airplane would not climb, and struck a light pole, sustaining substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot stated that he failed to remove heavy frost from the airplane prior to the takeoff attempt. He also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.