Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the water while operating at a low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the float-equipped airplane stated the purpose of the flight was to "scout for fish." While flying 30 feet above the water the airplane encountered a "huge gust of wind" and then bounced off the water surface multiple times. The pilot applied full power to reestablish flight but the right pontoon contacted the water and the airplane "ground looped." Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that could have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14CA229 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 27, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Punta Gorda, Florida
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built AVENTURA II
- N-number
- N543MG
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2009
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.