On January 31, 2001, a Cessna 172RG (registration N6448V) was involved in an aviation accident near Sunfield, MI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to slushy snow conditions on the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft sustained substantial damage after veering off the runway into a snowbank during takeoff, resulting in the airplane resting on its nose and right wingtip.
What happened
The pilot reported that the airplane sustained substantial damage while attempting to depart. During the initial phase of the takeoff roll, the left main landing gear encountered slushy snow conditions along the runway surface. This interaction caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left, directing it off the paved surface and into a snowbank situated along the left side of the runway.
As the airplane moved further into the deeper accumulation of snow, control was lost. The forward momentum caused the nose to lift abruptly, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest on its nose and right wingtip.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to slushy snow conditions on the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Jan 2001 Cessna 172RG accident near Sunfield, MI?
A light aircraft sustained substantial damage after veering off the runway into a snowbank during takeoff, resulting in the airplane resting on its nose and right wingtip.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 Jan 2001 Cessna 172RG accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Jan 2001 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N6448V, at Sunfield, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to slushy snow conditions on the runway.
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