Casualties unknown

Frost-Obscured Windshield Leads to Collision with Parked Aircraft During Takeoff (N234KB)

Marion, IA, US

On August 9, 1994, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N234KB) was involved in an aviation accident near Marion, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT PRELIGHT AND HIS FAILURE TO REMOVE THE FROST FROM THE WINDSHIELD WHICH OBSTRUCTED HIS VIEW. 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

An airplane veered left during takeoff due to a frost-obscured windshield, striking three parked aircraft. The pilot had positioned the airplane on the right side of the runway to avoid loose gravel.

Incident Overview

During a takeoff attempt, the pilot positioned the airplane on the runway, lining it up on the right side to depart on the grass. This maneuver was intended to avoid an area of loose gravel located at the north end of the runway. According to statements from several passengers, the airplane's windshield was completely obscured with frost during taxi and throughout the takeoff roll.

Takeoff and Impact Sequence

After applying full power for takeoff, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot responded by applying right rudder and scanning the instruments. Despite these actions, the airplane's left wing impacted an airplane that was parked alongside the runway. The collision was followed by a second and third impact with two other parked airplanes before the airplane came to rest.

Contributing Factors

No explicit cause was stated in the source material. The obscured windshield due to frost is noted as a condition present during the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Aug 1994 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Marion, IA?

An airplane veered left during takeoff due to a frost-obscured windshield, striking three parked aircraft. The pilot had positioned the airplane on the right side of the runway to avoid loose gravel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Aug 1994 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N234KB, at Marion, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT PRELIGHT AND HIS FAILURE TO REMOVE THE FROST FROM THE WINDSHIELD WHICH OBSTRUCTED HIS VIEW.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01996. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.