Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate flare, which resulted in the airplane impacting into the water.
NTSB analysis
The float-equipped airplane was observed flying low over the lake before it made an attempt to land on the water. Witnesses said the engine was operating normally but that the airplane never leveled off before it touched down. The airplane impacted the water, cart-wheeled, and came to rest inverted. Examination of the airplane revealed that the landing gear was in the fully retracted position, consistent with a water landing configuration. Examination of the airplane revealed there were no mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA187 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 13, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kimberling, Missouri
- Nearest airport
- None
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GLASTAR SPORTSMAN 2+
- N-number
- N627RM
- 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.