ANC96LA019

The operator reported the pilot and a company mechanic were attempting to takeoff from a snow covered runway in gusty crosswind conditions. The pilot applied engine power to begin the takeoff roll, and the airplane weathervaned into the wind. The pilot reduced power, and the airplane straightened out, but was blown downwind, off the side of the runway and part way down an embankment.

On December 16, 1995, about 1530 Alaska standard time, a wheel equipped Cessna 207A airplane, N755AB, collided with a snowbank during takeoff at Newtok, Alaska. The airplane was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country positioning flight under Title 14 CFR Part 91 when the accident occurred. The airplane, operated by Yute Air, Anchorage, Alaska, sustained substantial damage. The certificated commercial pilot, and the sole passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. VFR company flight following procedures were in effect.

The operator reported that the pilot and company mechanic were departing runway 15 for a return flight to Bethel, Alaska. The runway was packed snow that had been plowed earlier in the day. Several company flights had utilized the runway prior to the accident. During the takeoff roll, upon initial application of engine power, the pilot reported that the airplane weathervaned into the wind. He reduced power and straightened the airplane, but the wind blew the airplane downwind, off the runway's edge and down an adjacent embankment. The weather conditions at the time were reported by the operator as 800 feet overcast; visibility 2 to 3 miles; wind from the east at 15 knots with gusts to 25 knots.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspector, Anchorage Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), reported that the airplane received substantial damage to the right wing.