Casualties unknown

Takeoff Accident After Pilot Reports Runway Covered with Wet Snow (N8257A)

Egegik, AK, US

On February 27, 1993, a Piper PA-32-301 (registration N8257A) was involved in an aviation accident near Egegik, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THAT THE LIFT OFF AIRSPEED WAS NOT ATTAINED BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND BECAUSE OF THE SNOW COVERED RUNWAY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported the runway surface felt hard but was covered with wet snow. During takeoff, the airplane failed to accelerate normally after the go-no go point, leading to a crash off the end of the runway.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducted a takeoff from a runway that was, according to the pilot, covered with wet snow. The pilot stated that the runway surface felt hard despite the snow cover. A passenger noted that there was no visible snow on the airplane's surface immediately before the takeoff.

Takeoff Sequence

The pilot began the takeoff run and described it as feeling normal. However, after passing the go-no go point, the pilot realized the airplane was not accelerating as expected. Despite this, the pilot continued the takeoff. The airplane was unable to accelerate or gain altitude and subsequently crashed off the end of the runway.

Pilot Actions and Engine Examination

During the takeoff, the pilot did not check the engine instruments. According to the pilot, the engine sounded normal throughout the event. Following the accident, an examination of the engine and a subsequent engine run revealed normal operation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Feb 1993 Piper PA-32-301 accident near Egegik, AK?

A pilot reported the runway surface felt hard but was covered with wet snow. During takeoff, the airplane failed to accelerate normally after the go-no go point, leading to a crash off the end of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Feb 1993 involved a Piper PA-32-301, registration N8257A, at Egegik, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THAT THE LIFT OFF AIRSPEED WAS NOT ATTAINED BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND BECAUSE OF THE SNOW COVERED RUNWAY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11772. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.