Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4 N1204L accident near Morganton, North Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the departure, resulting in substantial damage to the airplanes right wing.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot of the amphibious airplane, during the takeoff run on a lake with choppy water, the airplane encountered about a six inch high wave and water-looped. The pilot reported that upon encountering the wave, the airplane's nose pitched up, the airplane ascended momentarily, then settled to the water. When the airplane settled into the water, the right sponson and wing impacted the water and immediately spun the aircraft to the right. The airplanes right wing sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or anomalies prior to or during the flight that would have prevented normal flight operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA062 for the full record.