Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control of the airplane during takeoff in gusting wind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the amphibian airplane reported that, during takeoff from the lake, the airplane encountered a gust of wind, which lifted the left wing. While correcting the airplane encountered a second gust of wind, which raised the left wing, resulting in the right wingtip striking the water. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted within the water, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR22LA232 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 11, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Copperopolis, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule MX-7-235
- N-number
- N13ZF
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1987
- 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.