Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff operations.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The operator reported that the pilot did not taxi back far enough from the shoreline before attempting to takeoff from the water. The pilot was planning to takeoff towards the shoreline and then make a right turn and follow the edge of the shoreline. The pilot did not have enough directional control to make the right turn to follow the shoreline and subsequently the float plane ran aground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.