Accident Details
During arrival, the pilot conducted a landing approach over the village to land the float plane on the bay. The intention was to land into a 30-knot headwind. While on final approach, the aircraft's rate of descent increased unexpectedly. The pilot applied full power and began to raise the nose in an attempt to arrest the descent, but the aircraft struck the beach in about six inches of water. The impact caused the plane to bounce back into the bay, where it remained afloat. The accident resulted in damage to both wings and both floats. The water rudders became unusable, but the pilot was able to taxi the plane to a beach by using power and sailing techniques.
Pilot's Statement and Investigative Notes
The pilot stated that he believed wind shear had been encountered during the landing approach. However, investigators noted that wind shear was not verified. Additionally, it was determined that the aircraft's center of gravity was near the forward limit. The plane was a float plane, and the landing was attempted on a bay with a headwind of 30 knots. No other factors were explicitly mentioned in the report.