ATL93LA098

The pilot completed a preflight inspection and runup before attempting the takeoff. There were no aircraft problems noted during the preflight, and all systems, including the carburetor heat, operated normally during the subsequent runup procedure. According to the pilot, he experienced a gradual loss of engine power during the initial takeoff attempt from a 1500 foot long private sod airstrip. Realizing that a safe climb was not possible, the pilot aborted the takeoff attempt after the airplane climbed a few feet. The airplane settled back onto the runway and rolled off the departure end of runway 29. Examination of the wreckage failed to disclose a system malfunction or component failure. Examination of weather data revealed that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. The pilot did not receive a weather briefing before the takeoff attempt.

On May 31, 1993, at 1253 eastern daylight time a Grumman AA5B, N74092, collided with the ground during an attempted takeoff from a private airstrip near Cummings, Georgia. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91 with no flight plan filed. Visual weather conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The airplane sustained substantial damage and the pilot received minor injuries. The accident occurred during the initial takeoff attempt from Cummings.

According to the pilot, he completed a preflight inspection which included an engine runup; all systems operated normally, including the carburetor heat system. The pilot planned to depart Cummings on a local personal flight before rain showers moved into the immediate area. He taxied the airplane to the active runway and began the takeoff. During the initial climb after lift off, the engine gradually lost power. The takeoff was aborted, the airplane settled back onto the 1500 foot sod runway, and rolled off the departure end of the runway. According to the pilot, the engine continued to run throughout the entire sequence of events until he shut it down.

Examination of the airplane failed to disclose a mechanical malfunction or component failure. A review of the weather data disclosed that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor icing. There was no record of a pilot weather briefing prior to the flight.