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Casualties unknown

Airplane Deviates Left During Takeoff on Snow-Covered Runway (N1346P)

Dowagiac, MI, US

On January 14, 1994, a Piper PA-23-150 (registration N1346P) was involved in an aviation accident near Dowagiac, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: was the pilot not maintaining directional control during the takeoff ground roll. Factors related to the accident were the icy, snow covered runway and poor preflight planning/preparation. 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

During takeoff on a runway with packed snow and ice covered by four inches of snow, an airplane turned left and went through a snowbank. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control on the 100-foot-wide runway and reported no mechanical issues.

Accident Summary

The airplane began its takeoff roll on a runway that had packed snow and ice, with an additional four inches of snow covering the surface. Shortly after the pilot applied full power, the airplane turned toward the left side of the runway and eventually went through a snowbank.

Pilot Statements

According to the pilot, he attempted to control the airplane but was unable to do so on the 100-foot-wide runway. The pilot also stated that there were no mechanical irregularities with the airplane's engines.

Runway Conditions

The runway surface consisted of packed snow and ice, covered by four inches of snow. These conditions were present at the time of the takeoff attempt. No other details about the runway or environment were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jan 1994 Piper PA-23-150 accident near Dowagiac, MI?

During takeoff on a runway with packed snow and ice covered by four inches of snow, an airplane turned left and went through a snowbank. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control on the 100-foot-wide runway and reported no mechanical issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jan 1994 involved a Piper PA-23-150, registration N1346P, at Dowagiac, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

was the pilot not maintaining directional control during the takeoff ground roll. Factors related to the accident were the icy, snow covered runway and poor preflight planning/preparation.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00607. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.