Accident Overview
The pilot, who held a commercial certificate, was operating a float-equipped airplane on a solo flight from a remote lake. The pilot reported that this was his first assignment to fly the accident aircraft. During departure, the airplane climbed to approximately 30 feet above the water when the engine lost all power. The airplane subsequently descended and struck a gravel-covered road located at the departure end of the lake. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Fuel Valve Differences
The pilot stated that the accident airplane's main fuel valve was different from that of any other DHC-2 he had previously flown. Prior to takeoff, he placed the fuel valve in the "up" position, believing he had selected the center fuel tank.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection revealed that when the pilot placed the fuel valve in the "up" position, he inadvertently selected the "off" position. The pilot added that the operator did not inform him of the differences associated with the accident airplane's fuel valve.