Aircraft impact following takeoff in freezing conditions

1 fatality • Provo, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed immediately after takeoff following a period of exposure to freezing precipitation without deicing or anti-icing measures.

What happened

Prior to departure, the aircraft was moved from a heated hangar to undergo refueling. During this process, moisture was observed on the wings. The aircraft remained outdoors for approximately 40 minutes in conditions characterized by light to medium snow and misty rain. No deicing or anti-icing treatments were applied to the airframe during this period.

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft reached rotation and entered a nose-high attitude. Witnesses observed the plane immediately roll to the left, leading to an impact with the terrain. Physical evidence at the crash site indicated that the left wing struck the runway surface before the nose of the aircraft hit the ground just left of the runway. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries reported in the provided text, though the impact was severe.

Findings

Investigation of the aircraft revealed no mechanical failures or engine malfunctions that would have prevented normal flight. While the aircraft was equipped with a Wing and Horizontal Stabilist Anti-Icing System, flight data recorders showed that the system was only activated briefly during the pre-flight checklist and remained in the off position for the duration of the flight. Although the switch was found in the on position after the accident, data suggests it was likely moved back to the off position during the sequence.

At the time of the accident, the temperature was -1°C with freezing mist and snow present. Because the aircraft sat outside for 40 minutes without treatment, it is believed that ice accumulation occurred on the upper wing surfaces, fuselage, and tail. The pilot's operating handbook requires that all aerodynamic surfaces be free of frost, ice, or snow before takeoff, and specifically recommends a thorough inspection of the entire wing surface. No audio evidence was found to suggest the pilot performed or verified an ice accumulation check during the pre-takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft likely experienced a loss of control due to ice contamination on the upper wing, fuselage, and tail surfaces following exposure to freezing precipitation without deicing or anti-icing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-01-02 Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300 accident near Provo, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed immediately after takeoff following a period of exposure to freezing precipitation without deicing or anti-icing measures.

Were there any fatalities in the 2023-01-02 Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-01-02 involved a Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300, registration N555NR, operated by Eagle Jet 300, at Provo, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft likely experienced a loss of control due to ice contamination on the upper wing, fuselage, and tail surfaces following exposure to freezing precipitation without deicing or anti-icing.

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