Gulfstream Schweizer A/C Corp GULFSTREAM AM G 164C N7501Z accident near Beech Grove, Arkansas

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight planning, which resulted in his attempt to take off with insufficient climb performance to climb out of ground effect in the high-density altitude conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane took off with a quartering tailwind of about 10 to 15 mph. The takeoff was normal; however, shortly after lifting off, the airplane began to settle back toward the ground. The pilot started to dump the fertilizer load, but the airplane subsequently descended to the ground and then hit a rice levee. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He noted that the accident might have been prevented if he had paid closer attention to the density altitude; the density altitude was calculated to be 2,205 feet, which would have increased the airplane's ground roll and decreased its climb performance.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14LA308 for the full record.