Incident Summary
A flight crew aborted a takeoff after the airplane deviated left from the runway centerline and came to rest on soft ground. The captain reported coordinating with air traffic control to expedite departure due to poor weather. After de-icing, the airplane taxied to the runway and began the takeoff roll.
Events During Takeoff
According to the captain, the takeoff progressed normally until passing the 7,000-foot remaining marker, when the airplane began tracking left. Attempts to correct with rudder and differential power were unsuccessful. The captain stated, "I lost control of the situation when the left mains got into the soft earth at the edge of the runway."
The first officer reported that shortly after advancing power levers, the Ice Condition light illuminated, and he alerted the captain. The first officer noted the airplane pulling left and the captain trying to correct it, then a hard pull left as the airplane straddled runway lights. The captain aborted the takeoff. With braking, the airplane slid off the runway, spun slowly left, and stopped facing east.
Environmental Conditions
The airport manager reported 1 to 1-1/2 inches of snow and slush on the runway at the time. Observed weather included ceilings 400 feet broken, 1,100 feet overcast, visibility 1/2 mile in snow and fog, temperature and dew point 32°F, and altimeter 29.59 inHg.
Post-Incident Examination
Tire tracks in the snow showed the takeoff roll began left of the runway centerline and progressed further left until exiting the runway. Examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies.
Probable Cause
Not determined.