Incident Overview
An aircraft collided with a railroad bridge abutment during an aborted takeoff. According to the pilot, the aircraft failed to get airborne, and the subsequent abort did not stop the aircraft in time to avoid hitting the bridge. The abutment was made of concrete.
Pilot Statement on Pre-Existing Condition
The pilot stated that before the flight, the aircraft had been subjected to sub-freezing temperatures with water present inside the pontoons. The freezing water led to ice formation, which caused swelling that compromised the integrity of the floats. As a result, the floats developed severe leaks. The pilot estimated that the leaks would have allowed the aircraft to sink within approximately two hours.
Reason for Not Sinking Earlier
Although the aircraft was left unattended for two weeks, it did not sink during that period. The pilot explained that this was because the aircraft was aground during that time, preventing water from entering through the leaks to the point of sinking.
Actions Prior to the Incident
After pumping the water out of the pontoons—the pilot noted that no ice remained inside at that time—he launched the aircraft. He then immediately began the takeoff taxi without performing any further pre-flight checks.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft failed to become airborne. The pilot initiated an aborted takeoff, but the aircraft was unable to stop before colliding with the concrete railroad bridge abutment.