Accident Summary
A floatplane experienced a loss of control shortly after liftoff, resulting in a water impact that caused substantial damage. The pilot reported no injuries to himself, while one passenger was uninjured and another sustained serious injuries.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after refueling, the aircraft taxied to the east end of the lake. The wind was estimated from the west at 12 knots. The pre-takeoff checklist was completed, and controls were tested free and correct. After the aircraft was on step and flying speed (60 knots) was attained, the right float was raised and slight back pressure was applied, resulting in airborne flight. As the pilot attempted to move the control wheel to the right to level the aircraft, the wheel jammed. The pilot immediately suspected that the right front seat passenger's knee was beneath the right side of the control wheel, preventing a return to neutral. Despite shouting at the passenger to move his knee, the control wheel remained jammed. The aircraft continued in a left bank, reaching an estimated altitude of 30 to 50 feet above the water. The left bank increased, and altitude was lost despite full power. The aircraft impacted the water in approximately a 40-degree left bank and 45-degree nose-down attitude, completing about a 180-degree turn from the takeoff heading. The pilot stated the event occurred very quickly, probably in less than 10 or 15 seconds.
Passenger Account
The passenger stated that he heard the pilot say "[the passenger's name], your knee" twice. He immediately looked down at his left knee and saw the left side of the control wheel situated against the inner aspect of the knee, but it did not appear obstructed from movement. He stated it never occurred to him to look at the right knee. The passenger expressed uncertainty about the cause, noting that he did not ask the pilot if his knee was blocking the control wheel. He also observed the absence of any bruising or abrasion on or about the knee or upper leg, making him suspect his knees were not the cause.
Investigation Findings
The recorded wind at the time was 200 degrees at 5 knots. An FAA examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies.