Incident Overview
A pilot operating a rented float plane experienced a ground loop during landing, resulting in damage to the left wing. The incident occurred after the pilot had completed scenic rides for friends at a destination lake.
Flight Sequence
The flight began with a departure from a seaplane base. The pilot made one en route stop at another lake before arriving at the destination lake. At the destination lake, the pilot provided local scenic rides to friends. On the final flight of the day, the pilot established a southerly final approach to a cove.
Accident Details
During the landing, the pilot was aware of gusting right crosswind conditions. While attempting to land, the left wing contacted the water, causing the airplane to ground loop. The subsequent ground loop resulted in damage to the left wing.
Weather Information
Wind data from an airport located 8 miles south of the accident site reported winds from 210 degrees at 12 knots, with gusts up to 17 knots. The pilot had knowledge of the gusty crosswind before the landing.
Pilot Experience
The pilot's total flight time was approximately 131 hours, with about 40 hours of experience in float plane operations.