Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot in command not following the procedures outlined in the pilot's operating handbook.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot noticed that at liftoff the airplane's nose was higher than normal. He looked at the flap indicator and noticed he had selected full flaps. He attempted to retract some of the flaps and accidently selected full up. The airplane hit the tundra and came to a stop. According to the CESSNA 172 pilot's operating handbook, the use of ten degrees of flaps is reserved for takeoffs from soft or rough fields. It further states that the flaps should not be retracted during the initial climb.
Source record
Factual narrative
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