NTSB Factual Report

On May 11, 2006, at 1400 Pacific daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, N4892, stalled during the takeoff-initial climb from a private airstrip and impacted trees in Yuba City, California. Twin Cities Aviation L.L.C. operated the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 137. The airline transport pilot who held commercial privileges for single engine airplanes, and was the sole occupant, was not injured; the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the local area aerial application flight.

In a written statement, the pilot reported that he hauled two 1,800-pound loads prior to the accident flight from the private airstrip that had trees and two double trailers at its end. The airstrip was unusable the first 300 feet. As he advanced the throttle to takeoff power, he noted a slight tailwind. After the airplane lifted from the runway, the pilot realized that he would not be able to clear the trees at the end of the runway. During an avoidance maneuver, the airplane stalled and impacted the trees. The temperature was about 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.

The pilot suggested the following recommendations to prevent similar accidents: when working from short airstrips or with obstacles, consider reducing loads until performance for the given conditions are determined; prior to operations from short airstrips, define a point down the runway at which the tail wheel should be off of the ground; determine a maximum temperature for maximum loading and when temperature exceeds this, reduce the load; and, when conditions are less that optimal, consult with supervisor before continuing.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's failure to attain and maintain an adequate airspeed during the takeoff initial climb.