Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA581

Kukaklek Lake, AK, USA

Aircraft #1

N9RW

De Havilland DHC 2 MK. I(L20A)

Analysis

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that, during landing on a river to pick up passengers, he observed that the river was low and that sand bars were visible. During takeoff, the left float contacted a sand bar in shallow water, and the airplane impacted the river bank. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that, during landing on a river to pick up passengers, he observed that the river was low, and sand bars were visible. During takeoff, the left float contacted a sand bar in shallow water and the airplane impacted the river bank. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to see and avoid a sand bar during a water takeoff, which resulted in the airplane impacting a river bank.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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