On January 11, 2000, a Piper PA-46-310P (registration N9103N) operated by Robert T Harris was involved in an aviation accident near Bradford, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure the wings were free of snow prior to takeoff, which resulted in reduced lift and a subsequent overrun of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft failed to gain sufficient lift during takeoff due to snow adhering to the inboard wing sections despite anti-ice application, resulting in a runway overrun and fence impact.
What happened
The pilot initiated pre-flight procedures by applying anti-ice systems to the boot areas of the wings before engine start. During the subsequent takeoff roll, two passengers on board observed snow detaching from the outboard sections of the wings. However, significant amounts of snow remained adhered to the inboard sections of the wings throughout the acceleration phase.
The airplane failed to achieve adequate lift and settled back onto the runway surface. It continued down the remaining pavement, overran the runway end, and ultimately struck a fence.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure the wings were free of snow prior to takeoff, which resulted in reduced lift and a subsequent overrun of the runway.
What happened in the 11 Jan 2000 Piper PA-46-310P accident near Bradford, PA?
An aircraft failed to gain sufficient lift during takeoff due to snow adhering to the inboard wing sections despite anti-ice application, resulting in a runway overrun and fence impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jan 2000 involved a Piper PA-46-310P, registration N9103N, operated by Robert T Harris, at Bradford, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure the wings were free of snow prior to takeoff, which resulted in reduced lift and a subsequent overrun of the runway.
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