On June 20, 1985, a DE Havilland DHC-2 (registration N99838) operated by Chisum Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Bering River, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After landing, a pilot taxied a float plane to take off into increasing wind. During the takeoff run, the left wing lifted, the right wing tip struck the water, and the aircraft nosed over.
Accident Overview
A float plane experienced a nose-over accident during takeoff after a period of increasing wind. According to the pilot, the event occurred following a landing in conditions that later deteriorated.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that during a 15 to 20 minute period after landing, the wind velocity increased significantly. He maneuvered the float plane to an area where he could take off directly into the wind. As the aircraft was on the step for takeoff, the left wing lifted as if struck by a gust of wind. Subsequently, the right wing tip struck the water, and the aircraft nosed over.
Wind Conditions
The pilot estimated the wind at the time of the accident was from the east at 40 knots, gusting to 50 knots. The gusty conditions were likely a factor in the wing's unexpected lift and the subsequent water contact.