Incident Overview
A pilot of a float-equipped airplane reported that during a takeoff attempt on a river, the airspeed dropped by 3 knots before the aircraft came up on the step. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff. As the airplane approached a bend in the river, the pilot applied left rudder but was unable to overcome the crosswind and current.
Sequence of Events
The right float impacted the beach. Subsequently, the airplane turned perpendicular to the river, and the left wing also impacted the beach.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.