Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing on the water and subsequent loss of control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he attempted to land the float-equipped airplane on a lake with “glassy water” conditions. He made an approach to the lake where he could use the shoreline as a reference, and where some ripples on the surface of the lake made it possible for him to attempt a normal water landing. He reported that he “apparently” flew over the ripples. The nose of the right float hit the water first and the airplane started to porpoise. He pulled the nose up and added power to perform a go-around. He reported, “I believe the impact broke the right hand flying wires as the left wing dropped and that combined with the “P” factor turned the aircraft about 60 degrees to the left.” The airplane was approaching the shoreline so he cut the power. The airplane landed on the water and slid up the embankment with both wings impacting trees.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA357 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 14, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Garrison, Minnesota
- Nearest airport
- Camp Lake
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat A1
- N-number
- N190BA
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.