Cessna 140 N2358V accident near Cedar Mountain, Utah

Probable cause

The pilot’s decision to depart with a high density altitude, which degraded the airplane’s climb performance and resulted in an impact with trees.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the departure roll, the airplane became airborne at mid field. Shortly after, he felt a “settling sensation” and the airplane did not climb any further. The pilot checked the engine controls to ensure full power was available. Beyond the end of the runway, the airplane struck trees and came to rest between them. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that the temperature at the time of departure was 21° C, and that the airport elevation was 7550 ft msl. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR23LA240 for the full record.