Snow snags Aviat

By NTSB · January 31, 2014 ·

Aircraft: Aviat A-1. Injuries: None. Location: Somerset, Colo. Aircraft damage: Substantial.

What reportedly happened: The pilot attempted a takeoff on a snow-covered runway. Earlier in the day he had landed on the runway. The snow was about 6 inches deep. During the takeoff roll, the airplane struck a snow drift and nosed over.

Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate takeoff planning/preparation, which resulted in the airplane impacting a snow drift during the takeoff roll.

NTSB Identification: CEN12LA126

This January 2012 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.

About NTSB

The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation, including railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space. It determines the probable causes of accidents and issues safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.

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