What happened
The aircraft departed on a flight while carrying a significant excess of weight, including extra fuel, camping equipment, a passenger, an outboard motor, and various tools. This heavy load caused the center of gravity to likely fall outside of safe operational limits. Additionally, a foldable boat was attached to the exterior of the airframe, creating substantial aerodynamic drag that negatively impacted both takeoff and turning performance.
Shortly after leaving the ground, the pilot attempted a turn to align with the landing area. Due to the combined effects of the excessive weight, poor balance, and high drag, the aircraft lost lift and stalled into the water below. The pilot was not rated for floatplane operations and lacked a current medical certificate. Furthermore, the float configuration installed on the aircraft had never received official approval, nor did the installation of a larger engine.
The investigation
Examination of the circumstances revealed that the aircraft was mechanically modified without proper certification. The floatplane configuration was not approved for this specific airframe. Similarly, the installation of a larger engine than originally specified was also unapproved. The pilot's flight time was not reported or available for review.
Findings
Contributing factors to the accident included:
- The aircraft was overloaded on takeoff with cargo and passengers beyond safe limits.
- The center of gravity was likely out of safe limits.
- A foldable boat attached externally created excessive drag.
- The pilot lacked a floatplane rating and a current medical certificate.
- Unapproved modifications to the engine and float configuration compromised airworthiness.