Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to properly evaluate the sea state during an open sea landing and subsequent takeoff attempt resulting in an inadvertent impact with the water.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
After a successful landing in the open sea, the pilot reported that the water was rougher than it appeared from the air and while making a subsequent take off attempt, the right float caught a swell and the airplane spun to the right resulting in substantial damage to both wings. The airplane came to rest inverted in the water. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.