Incident Overview
A pilot and a passenger were departing a remote frozen lake in a wheel/ski equipped airplane. The takeoff run was conducted in a southerly direction. During the takeoff, the airplane encountered strong gusty winds from the east. The airplane began to slide sideways to the right, and the right main landing gear separated from the fuselage at the upper gear attach point. Subsequently, the right wing and propeller struck the ice.
Environmental Conditions
The closest official weather observation station, located 41 miles west of the accident site, reported wind from the east at 12 knots with gusts to 24 knots. The precise conditions at the lake were not recorded, but the reported winds indicate strong gusty conditions from the east.
Aircraft Damage
The right main gear separated at its upper attach point. The right wing and propeller sustained damage from impact with the ice. The extent of damage to the airframe and propeller is not further specified in the available information.
Occupants
Both the pilot and passenger were aboard the aircraft at the time of the event. No information is provided regarding any injuries or the post-event status of the occupants.
Operational Context
The takeoff was conducted from a frozen lake surface, which is consistent with the use of wheel/ski landing gear. The direction of takeoff was southerly, and the wind was from the east, creating a crosswind component during the takeoff roll. The aircraft began to slide sideways to the right, leading to the gear separation.