What happened
During an attempted takeoff from the water, the pilot of a float-equipped airplane encountered significant wind gusts. Approximately three seconds after beginning the water acceleration phase, the aircraft unexpectedly lifted off the surface. Upon becoming airborne, the plane drifted sharply into the wind, deviating from its planned departure path by an angle between 60° and 90°.
As the aircraft continued to climb while tracking away from the intended course, it entered a stall. The aircraft then descended in a nose-low attitude, striking the water surface. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both the fuselage and the wings. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Findings
According to the pilot's report, there were no mechanical failures or operational anomalies present prior to the accident that would have prevented a standard takeoff. The primary factor involved the aircraft's reaction to strong gusty wind conditions during the initial acceleration and liftoff phase.