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NTSB Report
April 4, 2020 · Lake LA4 200 · N84PF
Hickory, NC
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 4, 2020
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Hickory, NC
Aircraft
Lake LA4 200 (1984)
Tail Number
N84PF
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA20CA144
The pilot of the amphibious airplane was conducting a takeoff from a lake when he rejected the takeoff because there were power lines and a bridge in the direction of takeoff and he was unsure whether the airplane would be able to clear them. During the rejected takeoff, he reduced engine power; however, the airplane became airborne. He initiated a slight right turn toward more open water. After touching down, the airplane "water looped." The aft portion of the fuselage was substantially damaged during the accident sequence. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and attempted takeoff with obstacles in the direction of departure, and his failure to maintain control of the airplane during the rejected takeoff.
Full Narrative
The pilot of the amphibious airplane was conducting a takeoff from a lake when he rejected the takeoff because there were power lines and a bridge in the direction of takeoff and he was unsure whether the airplane would be able to clear them. During the rejected takeoff, he reduced engine power; however, the airplane became airborne. He initiated a slight right turn toward more open water. After touching down, the airplane "water looped." The aft portion of the fuselage was substantially damaged during the accident sequence. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:30 EDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftLake LA4 200
Tail NumberN84PF
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-360-A1B6 · Reciprocating · 200
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 70 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind60° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point37 C
Altimeter29.88 inHg
Observation Time21:53
Weather SourceWFAC