What happened
The pilot reported that winds were blowing four to five miles per hour from the southwest during departure. While flying, he observed thunderstorms located approximately four or five miles to the west. Upon approaching his destination, the pilot noticed large waves on the water surface and decided to overfly the intended landing area. He subsequently identified a cove with smoother water conditions and executed a landing there.
While taxiing across the lake in the calm cove, a strong wind gust occurred. This gust lifted the right wing of the aircraft significantly. As the right wing rose, the left wing dipped downward and struck the water surface. The impact caused the seaplane to capsize immediately. The aircraft then sank completely.
The investigation
The source text does not provide specific details regarding a mechanical examination or post-accident recovery findings. The narrative relies entirely on the pilot's account of the sequence of events leading to the loss of the aircraft.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the interaction between the seaplane and sudden wind conditions while taxiing on water. The strong wind lifted one wing, destabilizing the aircraft's balance on the surface. This instability led directly to the left wing contacting the water, resulting in the capsize and subsequent sinking of the plane. The presence of large waves earlier in the flight influenced the pilot's decision to seek a smoother cove, but the accident occurred during the taxi phase in that calmer area.
Safety message
Pilots operating seaplanes must remain vigilant regarding sudden wind changes while taxiing on water, even in areas that appear calm. A strong gust can lift one wing enough to cause the opposite wing to strike the surface, leading to a rapid capsize.