On December 21, 1973, a Cessna 411 (registration N424RF) operated by Seventy Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Endicott, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during takeoff after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain. The following factors were reported: - Snow on runway, - Delayed action in aborting takeoff, - Inadequate preflight preparation, - Snow, - Unfavorable wind conditions, - Overload… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During takeoff from a snow-covered runway, a multi-engine airplane lost directional control. Despite reducing power on the right engine, the aircraft overran and came to rest in snow. The pilot was seriously wounded, and all four passengers were injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Incident Overview
During takeoff from a snow-covered runway, the airplane became unstable and the pilot lost directional control. In an attempt to correct the skid, the pilot reduced power on the right engine, but this action was insufficient to regain control. The aircraft subsequently overran the runway and came to rest in a snow-covered area.
Injuries and Damage
All four passengers sustained injuries, and the pilot was seriously wounded. The aircraft was written off due to the damage sustained in the overrun.
Probable Cause (Official Findings)
The investigation determined that the loss of control during takeoff resulted from the pilot selecting an unsuitable terrain for takeoff. The following contributing factors were reported:
Snow on the runway
Delayed action in aborting the takeoff
Inadequate preflight preparation
Snow
Unfavorable wind conditions
Overload failure
Reduced power on the right engine to correct the skid
Unable to obtain takeoff speed and overrun the runway