Aircraft Spins to Ground After Takeoff from Remote Mountain Strip (N2515A)

Accident Details

The accident occurred shortly after takeoff from a remote mountain airstrip. The pilot and multiple witnesses reported that the left wing suddenly dropped, and the airplane spun to the ground. The pilot later expressed his belief that he might not have removed all of the frost from the wings after taking off the wing covers. The airplane had been parked outside overnight. The overnight temperatures were below freezing, and 2 to 3 inches of dry snow had fallen. The pilot's suspicion indicates that frost contamination may have been a factor in the loss of control.

Pilot Statement

In his account, the pilot stated that he had removed the wing covers prior to departure but was uncertain whether he had fully cleared the accumulated frost. He noted that the airplane had been exposed to sub-freezing conditions and snowfall overnight.

Witness Accounts

Witnesses on the ground observed the left wing drop immediately after liftoff, followed by a spin that ended with the airplane impacting the ground. Their reports corroborated the pilot's description of the event.