NTSB Factual Report

On July 24, 2002, about 1200 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped Cessna 206 airplane, N4767U, sustained substantial damage when it nosed over during the takeoff run from a saltwater bay. The bay is located about 40 miles northwest of Kodiak, Alaska. The airplane was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country positioning flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The airplane was registered to an individual, and operated by Highline Air Service, Kodiak. The commercial certificated pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and VFR company flight following procedures were in effect. The flight originated at the accident site, about 1155, and was en route to the Kodiak Seaplane Base, Kodiak.

During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge on July 26, the pilot reported that during a southerly takeoff run, as the airplane came up on the step, he encountered strong gusty winds from the south-southeast, estimated to be 25 to 35 knots. He said that just before the airplane became airborne, a strong gust of wind lifted the left wing. He applied full left aileron in an attempt to correct the roll, but the right wing struck the surface of the water. The airplane pivoted to the right, nosed over, and sank. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident anomalies with the airplane.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the takeoff run, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent nose over. A factor associated with the accident was wind gusts.