Pilot Debrief

GRUMMAN G-21A near Marathon, FL — 2008-01-29

Final reportMIA08LA048
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Date
2008-01-29
Location
Marathon, FL, USA
Airport
MTH
Aircraft
GRUMMAN G-21A
Registration
N21A
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

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

NTSB narrative

After departing an airport and completing the checklist, the pilot proceeded to a water-work area. The pilot stated that other than that, he had no further recollection of the flight. The passenger stated that the pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings, and that during a water landing, the left wing contacted the water, and the airplane water looped. Examination of the airplane by the FAA revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane or engine, and none were reported by the pilot or passenger.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Controlled flight into terrain
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen a different landing approach to avoid impact.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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