Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to retract the landing gear before a water landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the amphibious airplane reported that during a water landing, he forgot to retract the landing gear, and the airplane touched down with the landing gear extended. The airplane subsequently nosed over and sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.