What happened
During an attempt to depart from Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field, a twin engine airplane began its takeoff roll on a runway covered in snow. At the time of departure, the aircraft's wings were coated with ice and snow. As the plane reached liftoff speed, it struck a fence situated just beyond the end of the runway. Rather than aborting the flight, the pilot proceeded with the departure.
Shortly after reaching an altitude of 11,800 feet, the aircraft encountered significant atmospheric turbulence consisting of updrafts and downdrafts. The pilot lost control of the plane, which subsequently crashed in a canyon located several miles from the airport. Search teams located the wreckage two days after the accident.
Findings
The accident resulted in one fatality and six serious injuries. Investigations identified several critical factors leading to the crash:
- The aircraft was operated with ice and snow accumulation on the wings.
- The pilot failed to abort the takeoff after striking a fence during the initial climb.
- Severe weather conditions, including sleet, freezing rain, and snow on the runway, were present.
- Inadequate preflight preparation led to a controlled collision with a fence and subsequent controlled flight into terrain.
- Encountering unexpected downdrafts and updrafts contributed to the loss of control.