Aircraft Overrun Following Failed Takeoff Due to Frost

Casualties unknown • Bradley Lake, AK, US

An aircraft departed the end of a runway and struck a perimeter fence after the pilot attempted takeoff with frost remaining on the airfoil surfaces.

What happened

During the preflight inspection, the pilot elected not to remove or polish frost from the airfoil surfaces of the aircraft, as he believed the frost was not heavy or coarse enough to impact takeoff performance.

As the aircraft reached the midpoint of the 2,000-foot runway, the pilot attempted to rotate for liftoff, but the airplane remained on the ground. The pilot described the sensation as if the airplane were stuck to the runway. A second attempt to achieve flight was made immediately; during this attempt, the aircraft may have reached an altitude of one to two feet before settling back onto the runway.

With approximately 500 feet of runway remaining, the pilot reduced engine power with the intention of aborting the takeoff. However, fearing there was insufficient distance to stop safely, the pilot continued the takeoff roll. The aircraft departed the end of the airstrip at approximately 85 knots, striking a threshold light. The aircraft reached an altitude of about three feet before colliding with a perimeter fence and rock covered terrain. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to proceed with takeoff without removing frost from the airfoil surfaces, which impaired the aircraft's aerodynamic performance.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-02-20 Cessna 206 accident near Bradley Lake, AK?

An aircraft departed the end of a runway and struck a perimeter fence after the pilot attempted takeoff with frost remaining on the airfoil surfaces.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-02-20 involved a Cessna 206, registration N5036U, operated by South Central Air, at Bradley Lake, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to proceed with takeoff without removing frost from the airfoil surfaces, which impaired the aircraft's aerodynamic performance.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11770. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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