Aircraft excursion during takeoff roll on wet grass runway

Casualties unknown • White Post, VA, US

A pilot failed to de-ice an aircraft prior to departure, leading to a loss of directional control and an excursion into a fence and dirt mound during takeoff.

What happened

During the takeoff roll on a 2,000-foot long wet grass runway, the aircraft veered to the left. The aircraft subsequently went through a barbed wire fence and struck a dirt mound. The sequence ended with the airplane coming to rest 150 feet beyond the mound on its nose.

At the time of departure, the pilot reported that a light frost covered the airplane. However, the pilot chose not to perform de-icing procedures because he was in a hurry. The runway conditions included wet grass estimated to be approximately 9 inches long.

Findings

The pilot informed an FAA inspector that the accident was his fault and could have been prevented if he had de-iced the aircraft thoroughly. The pilot also stated that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane prior to the event. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to thoroughly de-ice the aircraft prior to takeoff while operating on a wet, long-grass runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-04-26 Stinson 108 accident near White Post, VA?

A pilot failed to de-ice an aircraft prior to departure, leading to a loss of directional control and an excursion into a fence and dirt mound during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-04-26 involved a Stinson 108, registration N97168, at White Post, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to thoroughly de-ice the aircraft prior to takeoff while operating on a wet, long-grass runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010507X00888. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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