Accident Overview
A solo airline transport pilot was conducting an on-demand air taxi flight in a float-equipped airplane. During the initial climb, as the airplane reached approximately 100 feet above the water, items from the map compartment fell onto the floor. The pilot's attention became temporarily diverted as he leaned to the right side of the airplane to recover the fallen items.
Sequence of Events
While the pilot leaned over, the airplane began to descend. The floats made contact with the water surface, causing the airplane to bounce upward. The pilot then continued the climb without further incident.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the forward fuselage area near the float attachments. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.