Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while taxiing, which resulted in a collision with trees.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of a ski-equipped airplane reported that while taxiing on a snow-covered airstrip for takeoff, the left ski hit a snow drift which pulled the airplane off the runway and into a tree. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.