Float Plane Accident During Second Takeoff (N88593)

Incident Overview and Pilot Report A float plane was operated from one lake to another, where the pilot picked up a passenger. During the second takeoff, the pilot reported experiencing pitch problems during the climb, noting that the nose consistently tended to pitch up. At an altitude of approximately 50 to 100 feet, the aircraft began turning to the left and the nose pitched down, resulting in a crash into the lake. The pilot stated that no weight and balance or performance calculation was performed prior to takeoff. ## Aircraft Condition and Weight Data The aircraft was recovered with the elevator trim set in the full nose-down position. A weight and balance record dated May 12, 1973, listed the maximum gross weight of the airplane as 1,294 pounds. The approximate weight of the aircraft during the accident flight totaled 1,420 pounds, exceeding the documented maximum gross weight.