No fatalities

4 Apr 2020: Lake LA4 200 — Hickory, NC

Hickory, NC, United States

On 4 Apr 2020, a Lake LA4 200 was involved in an aviation accident near Hickory, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and attempted takeoff with obstacles in the direction of departure, and his failure to maintain control of the airplane during the rejected takeoff. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

An amphibious airplane experienced a water loop after the pilot rejected a takeoff due to power lines and a bridge, resulting in substantial damage to the aft fuselage.

Event Overview

An amphibious airplane was conducting a takeoff from a lake when the pilot decided to reject the takeoff. The rejection was prompted by the presence of power lines and a bridge in the direction of takeoff; the pilot was uncertain whether the airplane would be able to clear them.

Rejected Takeoff and Subsequent Maneuvers

During the rejected takeoff, the pilot reduced engine power. Despite the power reduction, the airplane became airborne. The pilot then initiated a slight right turn toward more open water.

Touchdown and Water Loop

After touching down on the water, the airplane "water looped," a term describing a loss of directional control on water resulting in a sharp turn. The aft portion of the fuselage was substantially damaged during the accident sequence.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot