Primary finding
Probable cause
The inadvertent encounter with water wake during the takeoff sequence that degraded the airplane’s airspeed and resulted in the pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from obstacles during the initial climb.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the amphibious airplane reported that, while taking off from a lake, unforeseen wakes that resulted in a decay the airplane’s airspeed. The pilot said that he was already committed to takeoff and initiated a climb at the airplane’s best rate of climb. While maneuvering to avoid obstructions, the left wing impacted a vehicle, and the airplane came to rest between two water tanks. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.