Incident Overview
A solo commercial pilot was departing from a saltwater bay in a float-equipped airplane. During the takeoff run toward the south, just as the airplane came up on the step (the phase when the floats begin to plane on the water), the aircraft encountered strong gusty winds from the south-southeast. The wind was estimated at 25 to 35 knots.
Sequence of Events
Just before the airplane became airborne, a strong gust of wind lifted the left wing. The pilot immediately applied full left aileron in an attempt to correct the resulting roll. However, the right wing struck the surface of the water. The impact caused the airplane to pivot to the right, nose over, and subsequently sink.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident anomalies with the airplane, indicating no mechanical or system failures before the event.