Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare and his delayed decision to go-around, which resulted in impact with rocks on a shoreline.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during landing on a lake, he was concerned he would not have enough landing distance, and he chose to conduct a go-around, during which the airplane's floats impacted the rocks on the shoreline, and the airplane nosed over. The pilot added that, "I should not have added power" during the flare. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that, during landing on a lake, he was concerned he would not have enough landing distance and he chose to conduct a go-around. The airplane floats impacted the rocks on the shoreline and the airplane nosed over. The pilot further reported that, "I should not have added power to my flair." The airplane sustained substantial damaged to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation station located 4 mile north-east of the accident reported that, about 12 minutes after the accident, the wind was variable at 5 knots and visibility 10 statute miles. The airplane was landing to the east.