Accident Description
A pilot was attempting a takeoff from a snow-covered frozen lake using skis. According to the pilot's written statement, the snow was sticky, resulting in a long takeoff run. The aircraft became airborne but could not climb above approaching trees. The pilot elected to turn left and land back on the lake.
Impact and Aircraft Damage
During the turn, the left wingtip hit the snow, and the pilot reported being unable to straighten the flight path. The right ski subsequently contacted the snow with a side load and was torn off beneath the airplane, along with the entire landing gear assembly. The airplane came to rest approximately 120 feet from the point where the wingtip first impacted the terrain.
Pilot Report
The pilot provided a written statement describing the events: "Taking off lake on skis. Snow was sticky - take off run was long - got airborne - couldn't climb above approaching trees - elected to turn left and land on lake." He further reported, "Hit the snow with the left wing tip - couldn't straighten flight path - ski on right hit snow with side load & ripped off under plane with the whole gear." No other details were provided regarding occupants, injuries, or the specific type of aircraft.