Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain altitude, resulting in controlled flight into water.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was flying above the reservoir at 500 feet approximately thirty minutes before sundown. As he completed a 180-degree turn, the sun was in his eyes. He put on a cap to block the sun from his eyes, and as he was adjusting the cap, the aircraft impacted the water. The pilot stated he “apparently relaxed the back pressure on the stick enough to lose altitude.” During the impact, the right wing incurred substantial damage. No preimpact malfunctions were reported by the pilot.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported he was flying above the reservoir at 500 feet at approximately thirty minutes before sundown. As he completed a 180 degrees turn, the sun was in his eyes. He put on a cap to block the sun from his eyes, and as he was adjusting the cap, the aircraft impacted the water. The pilot stated he “apparently relaxed the back pressure on the stick enough to lose altitude.” During the impact, the right wing incurred substantial damage. No pre-impact malfunctions were reported by the pilot.