Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain directional control during a water touchdown.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he was performing a water landing in a cove with gusty wind conditions. The airplane touched down twice and, on the third touchdown, veered violently to the left. He believed that he either “chined and waterlooped” or that the left sponson contacted the water first. Both sponsons and the left wing tip were substantially damaged. Additionally, the left side of the airplane’s nose and left fuselage at the pilot entry station were wrinkled and bent.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that he was performing a water landing and believes the left sponson contacted the water about the same time as the hull. The airplane water-looped, bending both sponsons and the left wing tip. Additionally, the left side of the airplane’s nose and left fuselage at the pilot entry station were wrinkled and bent.