Accident Overview
A float-equipped Cessna 180 airplane, operated by an airline transport certificated pilot, was involved in a collision with trees during a takeoff attempt from a 3,500-foot lake. The pilot was operating at gross weight. The first takeoff attempt was unsuccessful, failing to become airborne. A second attempt succeeded, but the aircraft became airborne late in the takeoff run and subsequently collided with trees on the shoreline, narrowly missing two houses.
Pilot and Operations
The pilot held an airline transport pilot certificate but was not rated for seaplane operations and had not taken any formal instruction in seaplane operations prior to the accident flight. A local pilot who witnessed the takeoff reported observing what he described as obviously poor technique.
Circumstances
The accident occurred during the second takeoff attempt from the lake. The aircraft's float-equipped configuration and the lake's length of 3,500 feet were factors in the operation. The collision with trees happened after the aircraft became airborne late in the takeoff run. The specific location, date, environmental conditions, and any injuries or damage were not detailed in the source.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the challenges of floatplane operations, particularly when the pilot lacks relevant training and ratings. The witness account of poor technique underscores the importance of proper seaplane handling skills.