Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4-200 N8543H accident near Skwentna, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate flare, which resulted in a nose-low impact with glassy water and a subsequent nose-over. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's diverted attention while landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that he was performing touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings in his seaplane in glassy water conditions. The first two landings were harder than normal and the airplane bounced. On the third landing, the airplane landed hard and nosed over. The pilot recalled that his airspeed during the approach was 60 knots and was descending at 150 feet-per-minute. He additionally stated that, after crossing the shoreline, he glanced down at the vertical speed indicator where his eyes remained focused during the impact with the water. He said that there were no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC10LA062 for the full record.