Flight Details
A flight instructor and a private pilot were conducting takeoff and landing practice on runway 12, which measures 2,800 feet in length by 50 feet in width. The wind was from the southwest at 6 to 10 knots, creating a right crosswind. The runway surface was dry, but snow lay on both sides in layers 6 to 12 inches deep.
Takeoff Attempt
The pilots performed various types of takeoffs and landings before attempting a soft field takeoff. During this maneuver, the brakes were held while full power was applied. After releasing the brakes, the nose was raised to attempt lift-off in ground effect. The high nose attitude prevented either pilot from seeing straight down the runway, and right aileron was applied to counteract the right crosswind.
Accident Sequence
The airplane lifted off the ground and rapidly drifted to the left side of the runway. The instructor reported not realizing how close they were to the runway edge. The private pilot stated that he attempted to correct, but the left wheel contacted the snow bank, prompting him to reduce power to idle. The airplane then skidded unevenly through the snow and nosed over.
Damage
Both wing upper skins and wing tips were buckled. The right lift strut and the lower aft empennage were bent.