On March 11, 1975, a Cessna 402 (registration N8416F) operated by Wilbur's Flight Operations was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage-Merrill Field, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The presence of significant frost on the aircraft's lifting surfaces prevented a successful takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll at Anchorage-Merrill Field Airport following the accumulation of ice and frost on the airframe.
What happened
During a departure from Anchorage-Merrill Field Airport, an aircraft experienced a crash while attempting to take off. The incident occurred during the initial phase of flight as the plane was accelerating down the runway.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the primary reason for the loss of control was excessive frost accumulation on both the wings and the fuselage of the aircraft. This buildup of frozen precipitation interfered with the aerodynamic performance required for a safe takeoff. There were no fatalities or injuries reported as a result of this event.
Probable cause
The presence of significant frost on the aircraft's lifting surfaces prevented a successful takeoff.
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