Accident Summary
A commercial pilot operating a float-equipped airplane under Title 14, CFR Part 91 was conducting a passenger flight in conjunction with a remote lodge operation. During takeoff from a lake, the airplane collided with the bank and nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were identified.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, he picked up passengers on a beach and water-taxied out into the lake for takeoff. He taxied approximately 1,200 feet, then reversed course into the wind and initiated the takeoff roll. When the airplane reached his predetermined abort point, it was still on the water. The pilot believed the airplane might not lift off in time to avoid the terrain ahead. Instead of aborting, he elected to apply full power and continue the takeoff. The airplane subsequently collided with the bank and nosed over.
The owner of the company stated that the lake was about 1 mile wide at the location where the pilot elected to take off. Passengers related to the owner that the engine sounded fine during the takeoff, but they did not think the pilot had taxied out very far into the lake.
Damage Assessment
The airplane received substantial damage to its wings and fuselage as a result of the collision with the bank and the subsequent nose-over.
Probable Cause
The pilot's decision to use only a portion of the available takeoff area, which resulted in a collision with terrain during takeoff.