What happened
The pilot was operating a float-equipped airplane along a river. The initial landing occurred without any issues, allowing the aircraft to settle safely on the water surface. Following the touchdown, the pilot began taxiing the aircraft near the left shoreline of the river.
While moving along the bank, the left pontoon struck the river bottom. This contact caused the airplane to pivot abruptly to the left. As the aircraft turned, the right float made forceful contact with the riverbank. The momentum carried the right wing into a nearby tree.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed specific structural failures resulting from the collision. The right pontoon was punctured during the impact with the bank. The right wing sustained significant damage, including harm to the leading edge structure, internal ribs, and the main spar.