Pilot fails to accelerate during takeoff after moose hunt

Casualties unknown • Near Sparrevohn, AK, US

A pilot returning from a hunting trip experienced windshield fogging and failed to perform a run-up before takeoff in snowy conditions, resulting in the aircraft settling short of the runway end.

What happened

The pilot had spent the morning shooting a moose and quartering the animal. He transported the meat to an unimproved landing area before walking back to his cabin for his aircraft. Upon returning, he landed and loaded two quarters into the back seat. It was now 5:30 PM and starting to snow. He taxied for takeoff without accomplishing a run-up. While taxiing, he experienced difficulty with the windshield fogging and, although in a hurry, managed to clean the windshield. When he reached the end of the strip, he immediately began the takeoff. The aircraft failed to accelerate properly during takeoff and settled back to the surface at the end of the strip.

Findings

The pilot believed that carburetor ice and a rough runway contributed to the lack of acceleration. The failure to perform a run-up prior to takeoff in snowy conditions likely allowed carburetor ice to develop or persist, reducing engine power during the critical takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure the aircraft was free of carburetor ice and his decision to take off without performing a run-up, which resulted in insufficient acceleration.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-10-02 Rockwell International STINSON 108 accident near Near Sparrevohn, AK?

A pilot returning from a hunting trip experienced windshield fogging and failed to perform a run-up before takeoff in snowy conditions, resulting in the aircraft settling short of the runway end.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-10-02 involved a Rockwell International STINSON 108, registration N97451, operated by John D. Shockley, at Near Sparrevohn, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure the aircraft was free of carburetor ice and his decision to take off without performing a run-up, which resulted in insufficient acceleration.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04226. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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