Experimental Floatplane Flips, Overturns in Alaska Lake

Submerged float plane in Naknek Lake. National Park Service photo.

By Leroy Polk | 

Posted: Tue 9:05 AM, Jul 24, 2018  | 

Updated: Tue 9:21 AM, Jul 24, 2018

ANCHORAGE (KTUU) - An experimental plane flipped on take-off, turning upside down in 
a large lake inside Katmai National Park and Preserve on Saturday. The pilot and sole occupant 
were able to escape, officials say.

According to a report from the National Park Service, a plane, which was described as being
"experimental plane on floats, similar to a Piper Super Cub," flipped and crashed into Naknek 
Lake  near Books Camp within the national park.

"Onshore winds created waves and conditions that were difficult for taxiing a light aircraft on 
floats," NPS wrote in a statement. "Wind pushed the plane sideways and a float dipped under the
water, beginning a slow roll that inverted and submerged the plane."

The pilot was able to safely exit the plane and hang on to the float, NPS reports. From there, 
rangers with NPS along with employees of the Brooks Lodge responded to the pilot, clinging 
on to the overturned plane, and were able to bring the pilot to shore.

The plane was then anchored down to prevent it from drifting into shallow water or onto the 
shore, which would have damaged the already-submerged plane further.

NPS said the pilot was uninjured, and that a salvage operation for the plane would take place 
"when there is an appropriate weather window."