Incident Overview
The accident involved an LA-4-200 amphibious aircraft during a takeoff under reported conditions of gusty wind and waves measuring 1 to 2 feet. The maximum demonstrated wave height for the aircraft is 1 foot.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, he aborted the takeoff because a person on a jet ski was in his path. As he attempted to turn to the right, a wing dug into the water and the aircraft waterlooped. The pilot reported that he and his two passengers were rescued by boaters, and the aircraft sank within 15 seconds.
Witness Accounts
No witnesses were found who saw the jet ski. Witnesses reported that the aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff for no apparent reason.