What happened
A private pilot was conducting a flight under 14 CFR Part 91 from an 800-foot long gravel bar situated next to a river. During the takeoff roll, as the aircraft began to accelerate, the pilot heard an unusual noise and decided to abort the takeoff. Despite the attempt to stop, the pilot was unable to halt the aircraft before it entered the river at the departure end of the gravel bar site.
The aircraft subsequently nosed over into the water. The incident resulted in structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot was not injured.
Safety message
The pilot recommended the use of longer gravel bars that do not require departures over water.