Incident Overview
A commercial pilot was conducting a 14 CFR Part 91 business flight in a float-equipped airplane. The takeoff was attempted downstream on a river. According to the pilot's account, he had established a predetermined point at which to abort the takeoff if the airplane had not become airborne. However, upon reaching that point, he decided to continue the takeoff run because he believed the airplane would lift off shortly.
Sequence of Events
The airplane did not become airborne as expected. While still on the step (the high-speed planing phase on the floats), the pilot attempted to negotiate a sharp turn in the river. During this maneuver, the airplane collided with alders and the left riverbank. The impact resulted in structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and floats.
Aircraft Damage
The collision caused significant structural damage. The wings, fuselage, and floats all sustained damage. The extent of the damage is consistent with a low-speed impact with vegetation and the riverbank.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a commercial pilot certificate and was operating the flight under business purposes. No further details about the pilot's experience or qualifications were provided in the source.
Investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's decision to continue the takeoff beyond his abort point. No other factors, such as weather or mechanical issues, were mentioned in the source. The source did not state a probable cause for the incident.