Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to take off from an unsuitable off-airport site.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was attempting to take off from a frozen, snow-covered pond that had just been plowed. During the takeoff roll, the airplane's left main gear hit a snow berm, and the airplane turned abruptly left. The right wing contacted terrain and sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was attempting a takeoff from a frozen, snow-covered pond that had just been plowed. During the takeoff roll, the airplane's left main gear hit a snow berm, and the airplane turned abruptly left. The right wing contacted terrain, and sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.