History of Flight
On June 17, 2023, at 18:26 UTC, a private Daher TBM 900 (registration N44WN) departed from Narsarsuaq Airport (BGBW) on an Instrument Flight Rules flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Two Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) operators were on duty. Before engine start, the pilot was advised that runway 24 was expected for departure, with wind reported as 260° magnetic at 9 knots and QNH 1016 hPa. The pilot read back the runway and QNH information. After a brief radio exchange regarding the expected ATC clearance, the pilot reported ready for departure. The AFIS operator confirmed no reported traffic on runway 24, with wind 270° magnetic at 9 knots, and informed of inbound traffic from the north and another aircraft starting up. The pilot responded with "Taxiing to runway departing 24 from Alpha." However, the pilot perceived that the traffic situation required a departure from runway 06 and initiated a rolling takeoff on that runway. The AFIS operators observed the aircraft enter the runway via taxiway Alpha and make a right turn. They expected a backtrack for runway 24 but suddenly saw the aircraft accelerate. During the ground roll, the pilot perceived an object (possibly a log) on the runway and rotated immediately, hearing a "bump." The pilot believed a main wheel tire collided with the object. The AFIS operators saw the aircraft rotate, descend below runway elevation, and then disappear from sight before they observed a climbing turn. After the collision, the pilot focused on maintaining control and assessing damage, finding no apparent damage and deciding to continue to Reykjavik. The AFIS operator asked if everything was okay, and the pilot confirmed. The flight continued uneventfully until landing at Reykjavik Airport, where ground personnel observed fuel spots on a taxiway traced to N44WN.
Injuries to Persons
No injuries were reported. The sole pilot was uninjured.
Damage to Aircraft
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left-hand wing structure. The aircraft was otherwise intact.
Other Damage
No other damage was reported.
Pilot Information
The pilot held the appropriate license and medical certificate, with flying experience and aerodrome familiarity details not specified in the source. No fatigue issues were noted.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Daher TBM 900, serial number not specified, with one Pratt & Whitney PT6A-66D engine. Mass and balance details were within limits according to the Pilot's Operating Handbook.
Meteorological Information
The accident occurred in daylight under Visual Meteorological Conditions. The reported wind was 260° to 270° magnetic at 9 knots, with QNH 1016 hPa. Terminal Aerodrome Forecast and Aviation Routine Weather Report data are not detailed here.
Communication
AFIS operators provided information on runway in use, wind, and traffic. The pilot read back clearances and communicated taxi intentions.
Aerodrome Information
Narsarsuaq Airport (BGBW) has a single runway designated 06/24. The accident site was near the departure end of runway 06, where the aircraft overran into an area with gravel and rocks.
Operational Safety Investigation
The investigation identified that deviations from Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) combined with a tailwind prolonged the ground roll distance, leading to an overrun.