On February 15, 1982, a Piper PA-28-151 (registration N56979) operated by Henry B. Borgsmiller was involved in an aviation accident near Monee, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which was related to the narrow runway width and the presence of frozen ridges left from snow plowing operations. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff on a narrow runway with frozen ridges, the aircraft rolled straight for 700 feet before veering left into a snowbank at lift-off speed.
What happened
The pilot initiated the takeoff roll at the approach end of Runway 27. According to the pilot's statement, the aircraft traveled in a straight line for approximately 700 feet along the runway surface. At a speed of about 55 mph, which corresponded to the calculated lift-off speed, the aircraft began to veer to the left. The plane departed the paved surface and impacted a snowbank located adjacent to the runway.
The investigation
An examination of the runway conditions revealed that Runway 27 was only 35 feet wide. Reports indicated that the runway surface contained frozen ridges remaining from previous snow plowing operations. These irregularities on the ground surface likely contributed to the loss of directional control during the critical takeoff phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which was related to the narrow runway width and the presence of frozen ridges left from snow plowing operations.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Feb 1982 Piper PA-28-151 accident near Monee, IL?
During takeoff on a narrow runway with frozen ridges, the aircraft rolled straight for 700 feet before veering left into a snowbank at lift-off speed.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Feb 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-151, registration N56979, operated by Henry B. Borgsmiller, at Monee, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which was related to the narrow runway width and the presence of frozen ridges left from snow plowing operations.
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