Cessna 182 N3024Y accident near Rapid City, South Dakota

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while departing from a short snow-covered airstrip, the airplane's nose wheel lifted off upon arriving at the "go/no go" decision point. He added that, about 30 ft. further the airplane encountered deeper snow and the nose landing gear lowered to the ground. Subsequently, he reduced the throttle and aborted the takeoff. The airplane exited the airstrip to the left, the right wing encountered terrain, and the airplane spun 180° and came to rest in a ditch.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the elevator and both wings.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA173 for the full record.