Primary finding
Probable cause
Inadequate preflight planning and preparation on the part of the pilot. Factors associated with this accident were a lack of recent experience in the type of operation the pilot was undertaking, a proper climb rate not obtained by the pilot and remedial action not performed by the pilot.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated he performed a soft field takeoff from a sod field which had been rained upon during the previous evening. According to the pilot, the airplane did not climb once it had lifted off and was in ground effect. The pilot stated he decided to abort the flight and land into a corn field because of the lack of climb performance. The pilot stated he used the airplane manufacturer's prescribed soft field takeoff techniques. When asked if he had extended the required wing flaps prior to takeoff initiation he stated he did not.
Source record
Factual narrative
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