Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while water taxiing. Contributing to the accident were the pilot's failure to compensate for the wind condition and a tailwind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after landing the float-equipped airplane in the water, and while on the step with a 7 to 10 knot, 45 to 50 degree left crosswind, the wind "sheared" to a [left] quartering tailwind. After veering to the left the pilot applied "strong" right rudder to counter the left yaw. The airplane's right wing tip subsequently struck the water, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and right aileron.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that after landing the float-equipped airplane in the water, and while on the step with a 7 to 10 knot, 45 to 50 degree left crosswind, the wind "sheared" to a [left] quartering tailwind. After veering to the left the pilot applied "strong" right rudder to counter the left yaw. The airplane's right wing tip subsequently struck the water, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and right aileron.