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Pilot Reports Runway Excursion During Takeoff on Snow-Covered Runway

Woodruff, WI, United States

On February 10, 2019, a Cessna 421 B was involved in an aviation accident near Woodruff, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain to directional control during takeoff from a snow-covered runway with a right, quartering tailwind, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a snowbank. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on a plowed, snow-covered runway, the pilot felt the airplane pulling right and corrected with opposite rudder, but the airplane exited the runway and struck a snowbank, causing substantial damage to both propellers and the right engine mount.

Accident Details

The pilot of a twin-engine airplane reported that during the takeoff roll on a plowed, snow-covered runway for an instrument flight, he could "feel the [airplane] pulling to the right" and corrected with opposite rudder. Despite his efforts, the airplane slowly exited the runway to the right and impacted a snowbank.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to both propellers and the right engine mount of the twin-engine airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Weather Conditions

The automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 5 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 110° at 5 knots, visibility 1 1/4 statute miles, overcast ceiling at 900 feet, temperature 18°F, dew point 12°F, and light snow. The airplane departed on runway 36.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Effect on operation

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Feb 2019 Cessna 421 B accident near Woodruff, WI?

During takeoff on a plowed, snow-covered runway, the pilot felt the airplane pulling right and corrected with opposite rudder, but the airplane exited the runway and struck a snowbank, causing substantial damage to both propellers and the right engine mount.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Feb 2019 Cessna 421 B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Feb 2019 involved a Cessna 421 B, at Woodruff, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain to directional control during takeoff from a snow-covered runway with a right, quartering tailwind, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a snowbank.

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