On January 13, 2007, a Piper PA-18 (registration N237WT) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control on the ground, and the wing impacting the snow-covered terrain. A factor associated with the accident was the snow-covered terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot landing a ski-equipped airplane in a snow-covered meadow encountered unexpected snow conditions. After packing snow and lightening the load, the airplane veered during takeoff, burying the right ski and wing. A mechanic found both main spars in the right wing required replacement.
Incident Overview
A private pilot was operating a ski-equipped airplane as a visual flight rules (VFR) personal cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The pilot reported landing the airplane in a snow-covered meadow. He noted that the snow conditions differed from his expectations.
Pre-Takeoff Actions
Before attempting takeoff, the pilot dug the airplane out of the snow. Using snowshoes, he packed down an area around the airplane. He also packed down a designated takeoff path and removed as much gear as possible from the airplane to reduce the weight for takeoff.
Takeoff Roll and Incident
During the takeoff roll, the airplane veered off the packed area. The right ski and right wing became buried in the snow as a result of the deviation.
Damage Assessment
A mechanic who subsequently examined the airplane determined that both the forward and aft main spars in the right wing would need to be replaced. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) did not inspect the airplane.