Progressive Aerodyne SEAREY near Crescent, FL — 2019-07-16

Probable cause

The pilot’s misjudgment of his altitude during landing and subsequent decrease in pitch attitude, which resulted in a collision with the water.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was conducting a test flight following minor maintenance he had performed on the airplane. While attempting to land on water in calm wind conditions (he described the water as “glass smooth”), the pilot applied forward stick and immediately found himself underwater. He later stated he believed he lost depth perception when he leveled out above the water's surface prior to touchdown and pushed the nose down to land. Witnesses report the airplane nosed over just prior to landing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Loss of control

First missed decision gate

Pilot should not have attempted a test flight with known engine issues.

NTSB coding

• Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) · Approach-VFR pattern final

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• FAA INSPECTOR'S STATEMENTinterview
• PILOT'S STATEMENTinterview
• WITNESS STATEMENTSinterview
• PHOTO ARRAYphotos

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