What happened
The aircraft attempted takeoff from a runway that was closed to normal operations because maintenance crews and equipment were actively working on the first 600 feet of the surface for repaving purposes. Departing from this compromised strip presented immediate challenges, as the airport facility directory explicitly warned against north takeoffs due to hazardous conditions including downdrafts, crosswinds, and surrounding hills and trees. The runway itself featured an upsloping gradient, which further complicated the initial climb performance.
At the time of the incident, density altitude was approximately 6300 feet, reducing engine performance and lift generation capabilities. Additionally, gusty crosswinds were present, requiring constant control inputs to maintain directional stability during the critical takeoff roll and initial climb phase. Passengers reported that the stall warning horn activated shortly after the aircraft lifted off the ground. The warning remained active continuously until the aircraft impacted nearby trees.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational context of the closed runway and the environmental factors present during the departure. Key findings included the presence of maintenance personnel and equipment on the initial segment of the runway, which necessitated closure. The airport directory warnings regarding hazardous takeoff conditions were noted as existing documentation that was not heeded or accounted for in the flight planning.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident involved the decision to utilize a closed runway for takeoff and the adverse weather and terrain conditions. Fuel exhaustion is not cited; rather, the stall warning indicates an aerodynamic failure to maintain sufficient airspeed relative to the angle of attack, likely exacerbated by the upsloping runway and high density altitude. The combination of reduced performance due to density altitude, gusty crosswinds, and the physical constraints of a closed, upsloping runway led to the inability to sustain flight after lift-off.
Safety message
Pilots must strictly adhere to airport operational statuses and avoid using runways that are closed for maintenance or other reasons. Understanding the impact of density altitude, runway slope, and wind conditions on takeoff performance is critical for safe operations, especially in terrain-constrained environments.