Accident Overview
An aircraft stalled at low altitude and crashed during takeoff. According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll the left ski became stuck in the snow, causing the aircraft to turn 45 degrees to the left. Instead of stopping, the pilot elected to continue the takeoff.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the left ski had become stuck in the snow on several prior occasions. On those occasions, ground personnel typically assisted in pivoting the aircraft back toward the takeoff direction. However, on this flight, no ground personnel were available to help due to the late hour and the long distance from the aircraft to the terminal.
After the ski stuck and the aircraft pivoted, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft, striking a couple of snowdrifts before becoming airborne. The pilot indicated that he reached a maximum altitude of approximately 50 feet. At that point, he stated that "the wing stopped flying," leading to a left roll and subsequent crash.
Conditions
The wind was from the west at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots. The pilot was initially taking off to the south before the 45-degree left pivot occurred.