What happened
During a flight operated under Part 91 regulations for a remote lodge service, a pilot attempted to depart from a lake using a float-equipped aircraft type. The flight began with the pilot picking up passengers from a beach area before water-taxying the plane into the lake. After traveling approximately 1,200 feet, the pilot turned the aircraft into the wind to begin the takeoff sequence.
As the aircraft approached a pre-planned abort point, the pilot realized the plane was still on the water's surface and expressed concern that it might not achieve enough lift to clear the upcoming terrain. Instead of stopping the takeoff, the pilot decided to apply maximum power to continue the departure. During this maneuver, the aircraft type struck a bank and subsequently nosed over. The impact caused substantial damage to the fuselage and the wings. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries reported in the accident.
Findings
According to statements from the pilot, there were no mechanical issues or anomalies present in the aircraft prior to the collision. However, observations from the passengers suggested that the distance taxied into the lake was likely shorter than the pilot's estimation. The decision to continue the takeoff despite insufficient lift led to the collision with the terrain.