What happened
On August 12, 2011, a Cessna U206F, registration N8737Q, was performing a sightseeing flight originating from a water takeoff near Arcadia, Florida. During the takeoff sequence, the pilot utilized 10 degrees of flaps to reach planing speed and subsequently added another 10 degrees of flaps for the climb. After reaching approximately 400 feet, the aircraft failed to maintain altitude despite the engine RPM remaining high.
As the aircraft began to descend, the pilot initiated a forced landing into a wooded area. The aircraft collided with trees, causing structural damage to the wings and fuselage, and a post-crash fire occurred. The pilot sustained one minor injury, while the four passengers were not injured.
The investigation
An investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) found that the engine assembly had separated from the firewall, and the forward cabin area suffered extensive fire damage. Examination of the trees along the debris line showed evidence of propeller slant cuts.
Upon recovery, the engine was tested at an authorized facility. During the ground run, the engine produced 2,400 RPM at 29 inches of manifold pressure and 60 PSI of oil pressure. The engine operated without hesitation, stumbling, or power interruptions during throttle transitions. Flight controls were confirmed to be continuous from the cabin to all control surfaces.
Weight and balance calculations performed after the accident indicated the aircraft's estimated takeoff weight was at least 3,855 pounds, which exceeded the maximum certificated takeoff gross weight of 3,800 pounds. The density altitude at the time of the accident was approximately 2,297 feet.