Event Summary
The pilot in command stated that he selected runway 24 for departure, noting the runway width was 66 feet. The runway surface was covered with ice, and braking action was reported as poor. To reduce the time spent on the runway during the takeoff, the pilot employed soft field takeoff techniques.
Pilot Actions
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft began to veer to the left. In response, the pilot applied full right rudder and full right aileron to counter the deviation. Despite these control inputs, the left main landing gear contacted a snow bank. This contact caused the aircraft to turn to the left and subsequently nose over. According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector's statement summarizing an interview with the pilot, the pilot did not attempt to abort the takeoff because he believed he could lift off before departing the side of the runway.
Environmental Conditions
At Greater Buffalo International Airport, situated 4 miles south of the occurrence, the wind was reported as 280 degrees true at 20 knots, with gusts to 25 knots.