What happened
During a takeoff attempt in heavy blizzard and whiteout conditions, the aircraft experienced a loss of control shortly after leaving the ground. The pilot-in-command initiated the rotation before the aircraft had reached the necessary airspeed. As a result of this premature rotation, the right wing stalled, causing the aircraft to impact the snow on the right side of the runway.
Following the initial impact, the aircraft traveled several dozen meters, eventually striking an embankment and a tree. The collision caused the aircraft to burst into flames, though the resulting fire was suppressed quickly by responders. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the premature rotation of the aircraft while it was traveling at an insufficient speed.
- Adverse weather, specifically blizzard and whiteout conditions, were present during the takeoff sequence.
- The accident resulted in 11 total injuries, involving eight passengers and three crew members.