On September 30, 1982, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2343M) operated by Agricultural Insurance Adminis was involved in an aviation accident near Salmon, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of directional control due to encountering deep snow and slush during the takeoff roll on a narrow, snow-covered runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a takeoff attempt on a short, snow-covered strip, the aircraft encountered deep slush, lost directional control, and flipped over after veering off the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported that the available runway consisted of approximately 1,500 feet of usable length. The remaining 3,050 feet of the strip was covered in unpacked snow and slush. The usable width for the first 1,500 feet was reported to be between 8 and 12 feet wide. At the time of takeoff, this initial section was covered with hard-packed melting snow and some slush.
About 200 feet into the takeoff roll, the aircraft encountered a deep area of snow or slush. Directional control was immediately lost, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway. The aircraft came to a stop in an inverted position.
Probable cause
Loss of directional control due to encountering deep snow and slush during the takeoff roll on a narrow, snow-covered runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Sept 1982 Piper PA-12 accident near Salmon, ID?
During a takeoff attempt on a short, snow-covered strip, the aircraft encountered deep slush, lost directional control, and flipped over after veering off the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Sept 1982 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N2343M, operated by Agricultural Insurance Adminis, at Salmon, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of directional control due to encountering deep snow and slush during the takeoff roll on a narrow, snow-covered runway.
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