NTSB

An inadvertent opening of the airplane’s canopy on takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and runway excursion.

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate airspeed and the exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack during the airplane’s turn to final, resulting in an aerodynamic stall.

The failure of the No. 4 cylinder exhaust valve that resulted in a partial loss of engine power. Based on available evidence, the reason for the failed valve was not determined.

A partial loss of engine power due to the formation of carburetor ice while on the ground, which resulted in reduced climb capability and impact with trees during the initial climb.

The pilot and owner’s failure to adequately communicate and establish an understanding of who was flying the airplane, and their failure to take timely action to avoid a collision with terrain.

The pilot’s misidentification of a corn field for the destination airport’s runway, and a subsequent aerodynamic stall at low altitude while attempting to land.

The pilot’s failure to monitor aircraft control, which resulted in a loss of control when a passenger inadvertently moved the control stick, and the pilot and other passenger’s decision to unbuckle their restraints inflight.

The pilot’s decision to land on a shortened field and his incorrect brake application. Contributing was the flight instructor’s lack of oversight.

Excessive wear of the left brake liners which reduced brake effectiveness resulting in a runway excursion.