FTW93LA196

The pilot attempted a takeoff from a grass strip with 200 gallons of chemical onboard and with 3/4'S of a tank of fuel. The pilot reported he could not sustain his initial climb and the airplane struck sugar cane crops coming to rest in the cane field. Temperature at the time of the accident was 84 degrees. The pilot further reported that there was no mechanical problems with the airplane and that the airplane would not climb due to high gross weight and warm temperatures.

On June 25, 1993, at approximately 0830 central daylight time, a Cessna A188B, N9772G, was substantially damaged on impact with terrain during a takeoff near Edgard, Louisiana. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. Weather for the flight was visual meteorological conditions. The airplane was owned and operated by Gulf Air Enterprises Inc. of Raceland, Louisiana.

During an interview, conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot reported that he was in his initial climb following takeoff from an 1800 foot grass strip with 200 gallons of chemical and three quarters of a tank of fuel when the airplane struck sugar cane crops and could not maintain flight. The pilot stated that the airplane would not climb due to his gross weight and high temperature. He further reported that there was nothing mechanically wrong with the airplane.