What happened
Approximately one hour prior to departure, the aircraft was moved from a hangar into an environment characterized by light snow and temperatures near 32° F. No deicing procedures were performed on the airframe during this time. While the pilot initially noted only the presence of water on the wings, a passenger—who was a rated pilot—later informed authorities that a small amount of ice had gathered on the plane before takeoff.
During the takeoff roll on a runway measuring 5,576 feet, the aircraft became airborne roughly 1,000 feet before the runway end. Immediately following rotation, the aircraft experienced buffeting and failed to establish a climb. The plane subsequently struck the level, snow-covered tundra in a near-horizontal orientation. Upon exiting the wreckage, the pilot observed that a thick layer of ice had formed across the rear two-thirds of the wings.
Findings
- The aircraft was not treated with deicing fluid despite freezing ambient temperatures and light snowfall.
- Ice accumulation on the aft portion of the wings prevented the aircraft from maintaining flight altitude after rotation.
- Pre-flight engine tests showed no mechanical issues that would have prevented a successful climb.