Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion After Ice-Contaminated Wing Takeoff (N112KF)

Glenburn, ME, US

On November 24, 1994, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N112KF) operated by George Higgins was involved in an aviation accident near Glenburn, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's (1) improper decision to initiate a takeoff with ice on the wing. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During preflight, a pilot observed ice on the right wing. Without removing it, takeoff was initiated. The right wing failed to rise, the aircraft drifted right, struck a pole, and settled into trees and a bog after power reduction.

Preflight Inspection

During preflight inspection, the pilot noticed ice on the right wing. He reported that the leading edge and the forward 18 inches of the wing were clear of ice. Despite this observation, he did not remove the ice and proceeded with the takeoff.

Takeoff and Loss of Control

After initiating the takeoff, the pilot found that the right wing would not come up even with full left aileron input. As a result, the airplane drifted to the right of the runway. The pilot did not abort the takeoff until after the aircraft had already drifted right of the runway.

Collision and Descent

During the drift, the right wing struck a pole. Subsequently, when the pilot retarded the power, the airplane settled into birch trees and a raspberry bog.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02654. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.