Incident Overview
A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a takeoff in a float-equipped airplane, departing on a river toward the southeast. According to the pilot, the airplane was on-step (the phase of a floatplane takeoff where the floats are planing on the water surface) when it began an uncommanded left turn.
Pilot Actions
The pilot attempted to counteract the turn by applying right rudder and right aileron, but reported no change in the airplane's heading. He then aborted the takeoff by pulling the engine power to idle. Despite this, the airplane continued a hard left turn, and the right wing struck the water.
Damage Assessment
After the incident, the pilot noted that the right wing was bent upward by about 40 degrees at the right wing lift strut attach point.
Post-Flight Observations
Upon returning to the dock, the pilot observed a light wind of approximately 8 to 10 knots from the north. No other conditions or factors were reported.
Report Submission
The pilot submitted a Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1) documenting the sequence of events and the observed damage.