N9103N

On January 11, 2000, about 0715 Eastern Standard Time, a Piper PA-46-310P, N9103N, was substantially damaged during takeoff from Bradford Regional Airport (BFD), Bradford, Pennsylvania. The certificated commercial pilot and three passengers were not injured. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed for the personal flight destined for Concord Regional Airport, Concord, North Carolina. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

The pilot stated that when he arrived at the airport, there was a light snowfall. He applied anti-ice to the boot areas of the wings, before starting the engine. As he taxied to Runway 23, the snowfall increased. The pilot initiated a takeoff roll and rotated, but the airplane ascended a few feet, "...then stalled back onto the runway." It overran the runway, and the right wing struck a mound of dirt. The right wing separated from the airplane, and caught fire. The left wing struck a fence post, and the airplane came to rest approximately 320 feet beyond the fence post. The pilot added that he did not notice snow on the wings. However, two of the passengers later told him that during the takeoff roll, snow was flying off the outboard sections of the wings, but remained adhered to the inboard sections of the wings.

Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions, nor did the pilot report any.

The reported weather at BFD, at 0708 was: wind from 260 degrees at 6 knots; visibility 1.25 statute miles; light snow; mist; ceiling 700 feet overcast; temperature 34 degrees Fahrenheit; dewpoint 30 degrees; altimeter 29.40 inches of Hg.