Incident Overview
The owner/pilot of a recently purchased seaplane was receiving instruction from a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to satisfy insurance requirements. During pre-takeoff preparation, the owner consulted the Pilot's Operating Handbook and noted that the recommended flap setting for water takeoffs was 35 degrees. The CFI disagreed, stating that only 15 degrees of flaps were necessary.
Sequence of Events
The owner reported that during the takeoff run, the aircraft seemed to have difficulty achieving a proper "step" on the water. At a point where he believed a takeoff abort was warranted, he observed the CFI reaching for what he assumed would be the power controls to abort. However, the CFI instead moved the flap handle to the 35-degree position and aggressively pulled back on the controls. This action caused the nose to rise, but the aircraft was unable to avoid contact with the shoreline, which was covered with bull bushes.
Outcome
The airplane struck the high grasses, nosed over, and came to rest inverted approximately 150 feet from the shoreline.
Pilot Statements
The CFI later reported that he was "a little too late in aborting the takeoff." Additionally, the seaplane base operator noted that the CFI had chosen to use a shortened portion of the lake for the takeoff run. The operator indicated that by altering the takeoff heading by ten degrees, an additional half-mile of takeoff distance could have been utilized.
Investigation Findings
No probable cause was stated in the provided source. The accident highlights a discrepancy between the owner's reference to the Pilot's Operating Handbook and the CFI's recommendation for flap configuration, as well as the decision to use a limited takeoff area.