On 27 Jul 2017, a MCINTOSH DONALD W KITFOX SERIES 7 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Priest River, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain lateral/bank control during the landing in variable gusting wind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A float-equipped airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings after the pilot reported a loss of control during a water landing, with the tail lifting and the aircraft veering left.
Accident Details
The float-equipped airplane was performing a water landing when, according to the pilot, immediately upon touchdown the tail came up to the right and the airplane veered left. Despite the pilot applying hard left aileron, the right wing tip struck the water and the airplane spun to a stop. The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Information
An automated weather observation station located 14 nautical miles northeast of the accident site reported wind from 170° at 6 knots around the time of the accident. The pilot reported the wind as variable at 5 knots, gusting to 11 knots, and that the landing direction was to the southeast.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotLateral/bank control — Not attained/maintained