Accident Overview
The accident occurred when a pilot attempted a takeoff from a runway covered with ice and snow. The aircraft was loaded with 1,512 lbs of cargo in freezing drizzle conditions. After an initial takeoff attempt, the right wing dropped and the aircraft touched back down on the runway. A visual examination revealed ice accumulations on the leading edges and upper wing surfaces. The pilot requested deicing equipment but it was not available. An offer to use a hangar was declined. The airport manager was en route to check the runway condition for plowing when the pilot returned to the aircraft. Attempts to remove ice manually from the leading edges were unsuccessful.
Sequence of Events
The pilot decided to attempt another takeoff, approximately half an hour beyond the scheduled departure time. The aircraft lifted off after using about one-fifth of the runway. After flying at an altitude of 50 feet above ground level, a climb was initiated. Upon reaching several hundred feet, the aircraft stalled and descended uncontrollably. Impact with terrain and trees resulted in the destruction of the aircraft by fire. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
Probable Cause Findings
The official probable cause findings include multiple factors: loss of control in flight during takeoff initial climb; weather conditions involving icing; failure to remove ice/frost from the aircraft; self-induced pressure on the pilot; ice accumulation on the wing and stabilizer; lack of airport snow removal; failure to use all available runway; icy terrain conditions; and deteriorated aircraft takeoff capability.