What happened
The pilot-in-command initiated a water takeoff from a lake. During the acceleration phase, the airplane exceeded the available length of the water surface and struck the opposite shoreline, causing the aircraft to nose over. Despite the violent impact and inverted position, the engine continued to run. Upon inspection, the flaps were found in the fully retracted position.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted following the accident. The pilot reported that there were no prior indications of mechanical malfunction. The subsequent physical inspection confirmed this report; no mechanical defects or anomalies were discovered that would have prevented normal operation.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the insufficient length of the lake for the takeoff run. Contributing to the outcome was the encounter with the shoreline at the end of the available water surface. The aircraft sustained damage consistent with a nose-over impact, although the propulsion system remained functional throughout the event.