On December 29, 1973, a Beechcraft G18S (registration N118W) operated by Carson Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Ann Arbor, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate preflight preparation on part of the pilot who failed to maintain flying speed after takeoff. The following factors were reported: - Airframe ice, - Low ceiling and snow, - Encrusted snow approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick on top of wing and tail… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from Ann Arbor in snow and low ceiling, the pilot lost control after the airplane stalled. All five occupants evacuated; aircraft destroyed. Official probable cause: inadequate preflight preparation and failure to maintain flying speed, with ice on surfaces.
Incident
A pilot lost control of an airplane during takeoff from Ann Arbor in poor weather conditions characterized by snowfall and low ceiling. The aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed into a field. All five occupants were evacuated from the aircraft, which sustained damage beyond repair. The airplane was not deiced prior to departure.
Investigation
Investigators reported several factors associated with the accident. The aircraft was observed to have encrusted snow approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick on the top of the wing and tail surfaces. Additionally, airframe ice and the prevailing low ceiling and snow conditions were noted.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is stated as inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot, who failed to maintain flying speed after takeoff. Contributing factors include airframe ice, low ceiling and snow, and encrusted snow on the wing and tail surfaces.