Accident Details
The accident occurred during a Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The pilot was departing from a gravel bar, which he estimated to be 1,200 feet long and composed of sand and gravel. Prior to the takeoff, the pilot examined the gravel bar to identify the firmest ground for the takeoff roll.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, after the tail came up, the pilot realized that the aircraft was not aligned along his intended takeoff path. He was unable to abort the takeoff roll, and the aircraft rolled from the gravel bar into the adjacent water. The airplane came to rest in the water in an inverted position.
Aircraft Damage
Both wings and the empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot verified that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that he examined the gravel bar before takeoff to select the firmest ground. He noted that after the tail came up, he recognized the misalignment but could not abort the takeoff.