On 19 Sep 2013, a PIPER PA 18-150 A150 operated by WARD ART W was involved in an aviation accident near Delta Junction, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate takeoff planning and judgment that did not consider the reduced acceleration due to snow-covered terrain, which resulted in an aborted takeoff and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from a snow-covered mountain ridgeline, the pilot aborted due to insufficient airspeed. The airplane rolled into rough terrain, sustaining substantial left wing damage.
Accident Summary
A pilot reported that during a takeoff attempt from a snow-covered mountain ridgeline, the airplane failed to attain sufficient airspeed to become airborne before reaching the end of the takeoff site. The pilot subsequently aborted the takeoff.
Sequence of Events
As the airplane continued past the end of the takeoff area, it rolled into an area of rough and uneven terrain. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest on its forward fuselage.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. No other damage was specified in the report.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. No additional information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other details was provided in the source.