CHI00LA225

The experimental floatplane's right wing contacted the water after takeoff. The pilot stated the right wing contacted the water while the floatplane was at an altitude of 2-3 feet above the water. The pilot also reported that there was no mechanical malfunction.

On July 26, 2000, at 0700 eastern daylight time, an experimental Comeau Avid Flyer, N646R, owned and piloted by a private pilot, was destroyed on impact with water during takeoff from Little Bay Du Noc, Gladstone, Michigan. During takeoff, the aircraft's right wing contacted the water and the airplane flipped over. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was not operating on a flight plan. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

In a written statement, the pilot reported, "...The winds were from the south at approximately 7 to 8 knots with some gusts to about 10 knots, and there were some short waves on the lake. I was the sole occupant of the aircraft and my destination was the Vette seaplane base in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. I took off directly into the wind and got the airplane onto the step. Shortly after the airplane left the water and became airborne, at about tow to three feet above the surface of the water, the right wing suddenly dropped and I was unable to level the wings. The right wing tip hit the surface of the water, and immediately after the right float also hit the surface of the water. I felt the strut crosswires snap and the airplane came to rest on both floats with the airplane listing to the right with the right wing tip in the water..."

Flight control continuity was established by a Federal Aviation Maintenance Inspector. The pilot also reported that there was no mechanical malfunction.