NTSB Factual Report

On March 16, 2002, about 1640 eastern standard time, a homebuilt Fisher FP-202, N4348V, was substantially damaged when it impacted the ground after striking wires during takeoff from a private airstrip near Parksley, Virginia. The certificated commercial pilot received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, which was destined for Crisfield Municipal Airport (W41), Crisfield, Maryland. No flight plan was filed, and the flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to the pilot, he boarded the airplane, started the engine, and taxied short of a 1,100-foot grass runway. He completed the engine run up checks, and then taxied onto the runway for an east departure. The pilot advanced the throttle and the engine responded normally, with the engine RPM stabilizing around 6,100. The pilot released the brakes, and the airplane started to accelerate. During the ground roll, the pilot noticed no change in engine noise or rpm, but felt the airplane was accelerating slower than normal. He contributed the slower acceleration to the fact it had rained the day before, making the ground soft and the grass wet. Even with the reduced acceleration, the pilot felt he could safely continue the takeoff. The airplane lifted off about 2/3 down the runway. On initial climb, the airplane struck a set of power lines, which caused the nose to pitch down. The pilot applied left rudder to avoid hitting a house, and the airplane struck the ground in an open area.

The pilot reported that he experienced no preimpact failures or malfunctions with the airplane. In addition, he contributed the accident to his decision to continue the takeoff, and the increased ground roll caused by the soft runway conditions. The pilot added that normally the airplane used 300 to 500 feet of runway before becoming airborne.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff. A factor in the accident was the soft wet runway.