Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in abnormal contact with the water during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The non-certificated pilot of the amphibious airplane reported that he was approaching a river for landing “too fast,” and that during the touchdown on the water he did not “have the yoke pulled back enough.” When he fully released the control yoke, and the airplane’s nose immediately pitched down into the water, resulting in substantial damage to the fiberglass hull. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.