On September 4, 1997, a Maule ML-4-220C (registration N2048U) was involved in an aviation accident near Aniak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadvertent swerve during landing on calm water. A factor was the pilot's lack of certification in single engine seaplanes. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After landing on a calm lake, a seaplane skipped sideways, causing the right float strut to collapse and partial float separation. The propeller struck the float, and the right wing contacted the water. The cause of the initial separation was not determined.
Incident Description
A seaplane experienced a loss of control after landing on a calm lake. According to the pilot's statement, the aircraft skipped sideways while still carrying speed. The right float strut collapsed, and the right float partially separated from the seaplane. Despite the damage, the aircraft remained upright.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident inspection revealed that the propeller struck the right float. Additionally, the right wing made contact with the water, and the fuselage sustained damage. Investigators were unable to determine the reason for the initial separation of the float.
Pilot Information
The pilot did not hold a seaplane rating, though he stated he had accumulated 50 hours of seaplane experience. The passenger was not a pilot.