Accident Details
A commercial pilot was operating a float-equipped airplane on a lake. Before departure, the pilot briefed passengers about anticipated turbulence. During the takeoff roll, the pilot taxied to the farthest point on the lake to maximize the takeoff run. After lift-off, at about 150 feet above the water, a very strong gust of wind pushed the airplane's nose to the left. The pilot applied full right rudder to regain control, but the nose continued turning left, and the left wing stalled. The pilot reported that the airplane stopped flying and fell from about 100 feet.
Impact and Damage
As the airplane descended, the floats struck the surface of the lake. The impact caused the left side of the fuselage to buckle and the left wing to strike the water.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the airplane was at approximately 150 feet when the gust occurred, and after the stall, it fell from about 100 feet. The pilot did not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, location, operator, or number of occupants. No information about injuries or fatalities was provided in the report.