N710JTBeech A36 · 1975

The pilot reported that, during a soft field takeoff from a private grass airstrip, he applied slight aft pressure to the yoke to lighten the load on the nose wheel. The airplane became airborne, but while in ground effect, the left wing dropped about 10º and the left main landing gear contacted the runway. The airplane settled back on the ground pointing about 30º left of runway heading. The airplane then departed the runway to the left, and ground-looped to the left, which collapsed the left landing gear. The airplane slid backwards and came to rest upright on the cotton field adjacent the airstrip.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both ailerons.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot added that he the weight and balance calculations were within operational limitations of the Pilot's Operating handbook.

The automated weather observation system located on an airport 18 nm south reported that, about 17 minutes before the accident, the wind was 90º at 5 knots. Another automated weather observation station located on an airport 22 nm southeast reported that, about 14 minutes before the accident, the wind was 110º at 3 knots. The airplane departed 26.