Accident Description
The pilot of the seaplane planned to land at a seaplane base situated in a bowl-shaped cove. The aircraft touched down long on water swells during the landing attempt. Deciding to abort the landing, the pilot initiated a go-around.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that, during the go-around, the pilot executed a steep turn while still at a low altitude. The maneuver was performed to avoid buildings and the surrounding rising terrain. However, the aircraft subsequently entered a steep descent and collided with a wooden walkway along the shoreline near the seaplane dock.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact part failure or malfunction. The official investigation identified several factors related to the accident sequence. The terrain in the area was described as mountainous or hilly. Weather conditions included unfavorable wind. The water surface was rough. The planned approach by the pilot was deemed improper. The decision to abort the landing was delayed. High obstructions were present in the vicinity. The pilot initiated the go-around maneuver but did so with inadequate airspeed, leading to an inadvertent stall. The subsequent loss of control resulted in an uncontrolled descent and collision with terrain.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause consists of two occurrences: Occurrence #1 – loss of control in flight during the aborted landing, with findings including mountainous/hilly terrain, unfavorable wind, rough water, improper planned approach by the pilot, delayed aborted landing, high obstructions, maneuver initiated by the pilot, inadequate airspeed, and inadvertent stall. Occurrence #2 – in-flight collision with terrain/water during an uncontrolled descent.