CESSNA 210 near Angel Fire, NM — 2009-03-23

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to take off on an icy runway with high crosswinds.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he noted that the tarmac and runway were covered in a half inch of rough ice during preflight. He back-taxied on the runway and performed a normal run-up without any problems. During the departure roll, the aircraft veered toward the left, departed the runway, and came to rest in a creek. Examination of the airplane revealed that the left aileron was damaged. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies prior to the accident. Wind conditions reported five minutes before the accident were 260 degrees at 16 mph gusting to 21 mph.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Takeoff
• Decision Making / Judgment

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