Amateur-built MU-582 DRIFTER N2628E accident near Seminole, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during landing flare.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot he was conducting some pleasure flying and sightseeing in a float-equipped airplane. He flew over a lake and decided to do a touch-and-go landing on the lake. He said while on final approach the wind shifted and the left wing “dropped.” The wing contacted the water and the airplane spun to the left. The right front float collided with the water and the airplane landed on the tail. The pilot taxied to the shore and noticed the damage to the horizontal stabilizer. An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector confirmed substantial damage to the right horizontal stabilizer and rudder. The pilot reported that there was no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA22LA293 for the full record.