Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the float-equipped airplane's right wing striking the bottom of the shallow lake, while taxiing for takeoff. A factor contributing to the accident was the gusty wind condition.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The solo commercial certificated pilot was water-taxiing the float-equipped airplane for takeoff to conduct a positioning flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The pilot reported that the winds were 30 knots, gusting to 40 knots, and that the wind picked up the left wing, forcing the right wing into the shallow water where it struck the bottom of the lake. He said the airplane righted itself, and he was able to taxi to the shore. In a written statement, the pilot reported that the damage to the airplane sustained during the accident was to the right wingtip, and one-fifth of the right wing.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC07CA089