On January 1, 1982, a Cessna 140 (registration N2482N) operated by E.l. Enochs was involved in an aviation accident near Pullman, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff on a snow-covered runway with insufficient stopping distance available, resulting in an overrun. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft failed to stop during an aborted takeoff on a snow-covered runway, overrunning the end and striking a bank. The pilot determined acceleration was insufficient due to recent snowfall.
What happened
The pilot initiated the takeoff roll on a runway covered with snow under calm wind conditions. Prior to the attempt, approximately three inches of fresh snow had accumulated since the surface had last been cleared. During the ground roll, the pilot assessed that the aircraft was not accelerating at a rate sufficient to guarantee a safe departure. Consequently, the decision was made to abort the takeoff.
Despite the attempt to brake, the aircraft was unable to come to a halt within the remaining length of the runway. It continued past the end of the paved surface and impacted a bank composed of snow and dirt.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff on a snow-covered runway with insufficient stopping distance available, resulting in an overrun.