Synopsis
A pilot during takeoff inadvertently aligned the airplane with the runway edge lines rather than the centerline, leading to a runway excursion and collapse of the nose gear.
Sequence of Events
The pilot taxied about half a mile before reaching the displaced threshold of the runway. According to witnesses, it was snowing heavily at the time. The pilot admitted that his windscreen was partially covered with heavy, wet snow. He believed that the snow would not be a factor once he began his takeoff roll.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the runway by FAA inspectors revealed that the starting point of the takeoff roll and where the airplane came to rest formed a straight line. The airplane's tracks showed that the pilot had inadvertently lined up the airplane with the runway edge lines rather than the centerline stripe. As a result, the airplane departed the runway, and the nose gear collapsed in the mud. There was no evidence of a mechanical malfunction.