GAA15CA199

Factual narrative

During the takeoff roll with an air density altitude near 7,400 feet, the pilot reported that the takeoff roll "seemed normal with a bit longer requirement as expected for high temperatures conditions". The pilot reported that after takeoff the climb performance was "low". He stated that the wind shifted direction during the initial climb; he maneuvered the airplane into the wind, and to avoid power transmission line wires and a highway by "gradual right turning". While maneuvering, the airplane settled into a "mushing descent" and impacted terrain. The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. During the impact with terrain the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. The pilot reported as a recommendation that "it is far better to engage the ground in somewhat of a controlled condition rather than to act with reactionary mismanagement of control inputs to the point of stalling and falling". During the takeoff roll with an air density altitude near 7,400 feet, the pilot reported that the takeoff roll "seemed normal with a bit longer requirement as expected for high temperatures conditions". The pilot reported that after takeoff the climb performance was "low". He stated that the wind shifted direction during the initial climb; he maneuvered the airplane into the wind, and to avoid power transmission line wires and a highway by "gradual right turning". While maneuvering, the airplane settled into a "mushing descent" and impacted terrain. The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. During the impact with terrain the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Personnel issues-Action/decision-Info processing/decision-Decision making/judgment-Pilot - C
• C Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot - C
• C Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Aircraft capability-Climb capability-Capability exceeded - C
• C Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Pitch control-Capability exceeded - C
• — Environmental issues-Conditions/weather/phenomena-Temp/humidity/pressure-High density altitude-Effect on equipment