Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to see the taxiway when returning to the ramp from the snow-covered runway, which resulted in the airplane rolling down an embankment.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while taxiing onto the snow-covered runway for departure, he was unable to see the runway markings. He added that he decided to cancel the flight and return to the ramp, but the airplane exited the runway and went down an embankment.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage.
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 GAA18CA134 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 4, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Great Barrington, Massachusetts
- Nearest airport
- Walter J Koladza (GBR)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna T303
- N-number
- N303TL
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1984
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.