CHI94LA210

The pilot reported the flight controls became 'mushy and unresponsive' during takeoff at an altitude of approximately 20 feet AGL. The airplane then descended to the left and contacted the airstrip in a left wing/nose low attitude. Inspection revealed normal operation of the flight controls. The airstrip grass was approximately 6 to 8 inches tall. 50 foot tall trees were located approximately 1,000 feet from the departure end of the runway. The airplane was about 20 pounds under gross weight.

On June 25, 1994, at 0610 central daylight time, a Taylorcraft BL-65, N26690, registered to Robert W. White, collided with the terrain following a loss of control during takeoff from a private airstrip in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, while on a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported that at an altitude of approximately 20 feet above ground level the flight controls "failed to respond." During a telephone interview, he stated the flight controls became "mushy and unresponsive" to control input. The airplane then descended to the left contacting the ground with the left wing and propeller.

The airplane and accident site were inspected by a Federal Aviation Administration Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI) from the Milwaukee Flight Standards District Office. The PMI reported that, "All flight control operation was normal" during the inspection. The PMI also reported the grass on the airstrip was thin and approximately 6 to 8 inches high. Approximately 1,000 feet from the departure end of the airstrip are 50 foot tall trees. The PMI reported the airplane lifted off approximately 1/2 was down the runway. The airplane came to rest on the airstrip approximately 50 feet beyond the initial impact point. The PMI estimated the airplane was approximately 20 pounds under the maximum gross weight.