What happened
During an attempted takeoff on a runway covered in slush, the pilot initiated a rotation before reaching the necessary speed for a safe departure. This premature liftoff led to an aerodynamic stall while the aircraft was in its initial climb phase. The subsequent impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and left the pilot, who was the only person on board, with serious injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements that led to the loss of control. The primary cause was a stall during the early stages of flight caused by the failure to maintain sufficient airspeed following an early rotation.
Additional factors noted in the report include:
- The presence of ice and slush on the runway surface
- Inadequate preparation prior to the flight
- Physical impairment and the pilot reporting they were not feeling well
- Improperly secured cargo, specifically a cargo net located beneath mail items