What happened
On 17 August 2019, a Super Petrel LS amphibious aircraft, registration 9M-ETC, was conducting a leisure flight from Subang Airport to Marina Island, Lumut, Perak. The flight proceeded normally through calm weather conditions until the aircraft began its approach to the water.
While turning onto final approach, the pilot encountered turbulence, prompting an increase in power to maintain a safe turn. This resulted in the aircraft touching down later than intended. Although the initial contact with the water was stable, a second touchdown caused a sudden, heavy vibration and rapid deceleration. The aircraft veered 90 degrees to the right, and water immediately began flooding the cockpit.
The aircraft eventually came to a halt with the nose submerged and the tail pointing vertically upward. Because the engine was still operating at full throttle, the thrust from the pusher-propeller eventually caused the aircraft to topple upside down. The pilot and passenger managed to evacuate the submerged cockpit safely, sustaining minor injuries.
The investigation
AAIB Malaysia investigators examined the wreckage and conducted a structural analysis of the hull. The investigation focused on the heavy damage sustained by the starboard side of the cockpit and hull, including a missing window and door. Laboratory analysis of the impact site revealed that the aircraft had struck a floating hard object of metallic composition.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's credentials and found that while the medical certificate was valid, the pilot's specific aircraft rating/test certificate for the Super Petrel LS had expired. The investigation also looked into the operational environment, noting the challenges of monitoring water landings in remote areas without established air traffic control towers.