ANC95LA110

The certificated commercial pilot, who was owner of a fishing lodge, was landing a float equipped airplane on a remote lake to check on the status of his clients. During the landing approach, the airplane encountered a gust of wind and collided with trees adjacent to the lake. The airplane received damage to the wings and floats. After a field repair to the float assembly, the airplane was flown to anchorage for a permanent repair.

On June 9, 1995, about 0700 Alaska daylight time, a float equipped De Havilland DHC-2, N67112, collided with trees during a landing approach to Grosvenor Lake, about 40 miles east of King Salmon, Alaska. The airplane was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) cross- country business flight under Title 14 CFR Part 91 when the accident occurred. The airplane, operated by Fox Bay Lodge, King Salmon, Alaska, received substantial damage. The certificated commercial pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.

The pilot reported that he was landing to check on several of the lodge guests. During the landing approach, the pilot encountered a wind gust and the airplane collided with trees adjacent to the lake. The airplane received damage to the leading edge of the wing, engine cowling, and a hole in the float assembly. The pilot repaired the float and during a subsequent taxi test, the float assembly filled with water and the airplane partially sank. The pilot eventually recovered the airplane and it was flown to Anchorage for repairs.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspector from the Anchorage Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), examined the airplane on July 18, 1995. He reported that the airplane had received structural damage to the airframe.