What happened
The flight originated at Spencer Lake and initially proceeded northward before altering course to fly south toward Baker Lake. While operating south of Hedgehog Mountain, the aircraft encountered severe downdrafts characterized by a vertical speed loss of approximately 500 to 600 feet per minute. This weather condition caused an immediate and significant loss of altitude.
Upon realizing the situation, the pilot initiated a right turn with the intention of returning to Spencer Lake. However, the aircraft continued to lose altitude despite the maneuver. The aircraft subsequently crashed into trees in the area. Upon impact, the aircraft came to rest with its floats positioned on the ground rather than floating on water.
Following the collision with the terrain, fuel leaked from the damaged airframe into the engine compartment. This leakage ignited, causing a fire that erupted at the crash site.