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Floatplane float separation during post-takeoff maneuver (N7404M)

Lawton, MI, US

On July 15, 1989, a Cessna 175 (registration N7404M) was involved in an aviation accident near Lawton, MI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate climb performance during takeoff at maximum gross weight, which led to a hard landing and subsequent loss of control while attempting to avoid the shoreline. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot performing a water takeoff at maximum gross weight experienced inadequate climb performance, resulting in a hard landing and subsequent loss of control.

What happened

The private pilot initiated a water takeoff with the aircraft loaded to its maximum gross weight. Following liftoff, the pilot determined that the climb gradient was insufficient to clear obstacles located along the lakeshore. Consequently, the pilot elected to return to the water for an emergency landing. The touchdown was forceful, causing structural damage to the aircraft.

The investigation

After touching down on the water, the pilot attempted a right turn to avoid striking the shoreline. During this maneuver, the right float separated from the airframe. Immediately following the separation, the right wing struck the water surface.

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate climb performance during takeoff at maximum gross weight, which led to a hard landing and subsequent loss of control while attempting to avoid the shoreline.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jul 1989 Cessna 175 accident near Lawton, MI?

A private pilot performing a water takeoff at maximum gross weight experienced inadequate climb performance, resulting in a hard landing and subsequent loss of control.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jul 1989 Cessna 175 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 175, registration N7404M, at Lawton, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate climb performance during takeoff at maximum gross weight, which led to a hard landing and subsequent loss of control while attempting to avoid the shoreline.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28748. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.