Incident Overview
A float-equipped aircraft operated as a cargo flight, carrying a passenger who was added at the last minute. The pilot believed the aircraft was within its maximum weight limit. The accident occurred during a flight toward Merill Pass.
Sequence of Events
After takeoff, the pilot maintained a low altitude for a period while the passenger took pictures. While en route, the pilot began climbing toward Merill Pass. As the aircraft entered the pass, it began a descent at a rate of 500 feet per minute. The pilot attempted to turn back while in a bowl-shaped area but was unable to clear the terrain during the turn. Subsequently, the pilot leveled the wings and crash landed.
Circumstances
The elevation of the crash site was approximately 3,000 feet. The temperature was about 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the wind was reported as light and variable. No other details were provided.