Accident Overview
A private certificated pilot experienced an accident while attempting to depart a lake in a float-equipped airplane. During preparation for departure, the left float was punctured by an unknown object, which the pilot stated he unknowingly collided with. The float subsequently partially filled with water.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that during the takeoff run, the airplane became airborne in ground effect but was unable to climb. He aborted the takeoff, and the airplane settled back onto the lake, impacting the water hard. The pilot stated that he did not believe the fuselage had sustained significant damage.
Postaccident Inspection
A postaccident inspection of the airplane revealed that a fuselage longeron was bent approximately 2 inches, adjacent to the left, aft float attachment point. The damage was confined to that area.
Next Steps
A mechanic planned to repair the bent longeron by cutting the damaged portion out of the fuselage and installing a repair sleeve.