Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-18A-150 near Gunthersville, AL — 2014-09-06

Final reportERA14CA431
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Date
2014-09-06
Location
Gunthersville, AL, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-18A-150
Registration
N7089B
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to retract the landing gear wheels prior to a water landing, resulting in a nose over upon touchdown.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he was performing both water and pavement touch-and-go landings in his amphibious airplane. On final approach for a water landing, he observed a jet ski come out of a slew area and his attention was drawn to it. Upon landing, "I found myself inverted." Federal Aviation Administration inspectors responded to the accident site and examined the wreckage. The landing gear and the cockpit-mounted landing gear switch were found in the down (extended) positions. A cockpit placard was installed, that stated, "DO NOT LAND ON WATER UNLESS GEAR IS FULLY RETRACTED." The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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