Accident Overview
A float-equipped airplane was involved in an accident during a takeoff attempt from a river, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that the takeoff was conducted in the same direction as the river's current, which was estimated at 3 to 5 knots, with a tailwind of 5 knots.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, as the airplane neared a bend in the river during the takeoff run, it encountered a gust of wind estimated at 15 to 20 knots, coming from a quartering tailwind direction. The pilot stated that the airplane lost rudder authority due to the wind gust, and he was unable to steer around the river bend. Subsequently, the airplane struck the riverbank and came to rest upright.
Damage
During the impact with the riverbank, the left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.