Accident Narrative
A pilot attempted a takeoff on an airstrip where braking action was considered good during the normal summer season. The strip was at an elevation of about 3,000 feet and was snow covered most of the year, as on the day of the accident. Due to grading and obstructions, the strip accommodated takeoffs only to the south, which frequently resulted in a downwind takeoff. On the day of the accident, wind was from the north at 5 knots with gusts to 10 knots.
The pilot reported that nose wheel steering was not effective due to the surface conditions, and the rudder was unresponsive because of the tailwind. Most pilots used a 25-degree right turn dogleg at the north end of the runway to start their takeoff, especially when tailwinds were present. The accident aircraft went off the runway to the left and collided with a snowbank, causing it to nose over. All four occupants escaped uninjured.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings include: improper planning/decision by the pilot in command, overconfidence in the aircraft's ability, self-induced pressure, high density altitude, tailwind, inadequate runway/landing area conditions (snow covered, icy, rough/uneven), selection of unsuitable terrain, and inability to achieve proper alignment, resulting in a terrain encounter and nose over during the takeoff roll.