Investigation number
198800702
Occurrence date
Location
Mypolonga
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Ground strike
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot was taxiing along the river at a speed of about 35 knots. At the end of the taxi run he initiated a turn to line up for take-off by applying full power and left rudder while holding the control column back. As the aircraft began to turn, the pilot sensed that the aircraft felt unusual. He closed the throttle, and noticed that the left pontoon float had separated from the wing and was being dragged by the fuel line. The water rudder was lowered and the pilot steered the aircraft towards the bank of the river. However, while concentrating on the left wing, the pilot did not notice that the right wing had insufficient clearance from trees on the river bank, and a collision ensued.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Lake A/C Div. Of Consolidated Aeronautics Inc.
Model
LA-4
Registration
VH-BDK
Serial number
773
Operation type
Private
Departure point
Mypolonga SA
Departure time
N/A
Destination
Murray Bridge SA
Damage
Substantial