On February 13, 2012, a Saab 2000 (registration YR-SBK) operated by Carpatair was involved in an aviation accident near Craiova, Romania during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the runway has not been properly cleared of snow prior to takeoff. This caused the lights on both edges to be not visible to the crew. The crew failed to assess the takeoff conditions, the runway conditions and weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During takeoff from Craiova Airport in freezing fog, an aircraft deviated right, striking a snow berm. The right propeller was torn off; all 55 occupants evacuated safely. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Accident Description
The crew initiated the takeoff procedure from runway 09 at Craiova Airport. Visibility was reported as 500 metres due to freezing fog. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft deviated to the right. As a result, the right engine struck a snow berm approximately one metre high. The impact caused the right propeller to separate from the engine. The aircraft then rolled for several metres before coming to rest in snow.
Aftermath
All 55 occupants evacuated the aircraft safely. The aircraft itself was damaged beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the runway had not been properly cleared of snow prior to takeoff. This condition caused the lights on both edges of the runway to be not visible to the crew. The crew failed to assess the takeoff conditions, the runway conditions, and the weather conditions. The following contributing factors were identified: the takeoff conditions exceeded the training level of the crew, and there was a change of takeoff procedure without prior training.
Probable cause
It was determined that the runway has not been properly cleared of snow prior to takeoff. This caused the lights on both edges to be not visible to the crew. The crew failed to assess the takeoff conditions, the runway conditions and weather conditions. The following contributing factors were identified: the takeoff conditions exceeded the training level of the crew, and change of takeoff procedure without prior training.
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