N84PF

Substantial
None

Lake LA4S/N: 1100

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, April 4, 2020
NTSB Number
ERA20CA144
Location
Hickory, NC
Event ID
20200406X44929
Coordinates
35.801109, -81.302780
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and attempted takeoff with obstacles in the direction of departure, and his failure to maintain control of the airplane during the rejected takeoff.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N84PF
Make
LAKE
Serial Number
1100
Engine Type
None
Year Built
1984
Model / ICAO
LA4LA4
No. of Engines
0

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
MITCHELL MYRON
Address
PO BOX 2201
Status
Deregistered
City
ADVANCE
State / Zip Code
NC 27006-2201
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the amphibious airplane was conducting a takeoff from a lake when he rejected the takeoff because there were power lines and a bridge in the direction of takeoff and he was unsure whether the airplane would be able to clear them. During the rejected takeoff, he reduced engine power; however, the airplane became airborne. He initiated a slight right turn toward more open water. After touching down, the airplane "water looped." The aft portion of the fuselage was substantially damaged during the accident sequence. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA20CA144