Aircraft excursion during takeoff due to snow bank impact

Casualties unknown • Gunnison, CO, US

A single-engine aircraft veered off the runway and impacted a snow bank during takeoff, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

What happened

During the takeoff roll of a Cessna (type not specified), the pilot noticed the aircraft sliding slightly. As the aircraft continued to accelerate down the center of the runway, the pilot maintained control and rotated at approximately 75 knots. While the pilot was observing a snow plow positioned further down the runway, the aircraft lifted off at an altitude of approximately 5 feet.

Immediately after liftoff, the aircraft drifted to the left, causing the left main landing gear to strike a snow bank. The impact forced the aircraft down, where it struck the ground off the side of the runway and came to rest in the snow. There were 5 occupants on board, including the pilot and four passengers; all were not injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Findings

The pilot reported that he failed to apply sufficient right rudder to counteract the propeller torque after the aircraft left the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to apply adequate right rudder to compensate for propeller torque following liftoff, leading to a leftward drift and subsequent impact with a snow bank.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-12-29 Piper PA-46-310P accident near Gunnison, CO?

A single-engine aircraft veered off the runway and impacted a snow bank during takeoff, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-12-29 involved a Piper PA-46-310P, registration N33MF, operated by Max A. Hale, at Gunnison, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to apply adequate right rudder to compensate for propeller torque following liftoff, leading to a leftward drift and subsequent impact with a snow bank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20080129X00118. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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