What happened
The pilot in command had recently delivered a new floatplane and agreed to conduct a demonstration flight for the aircraft's owner. Despite being aware that the owner lacked any prior experience operating float-equipped aircraft, the pilot allowed the owner to assume control of the aircraft during this flight.
The takeoff and subsequent pattern circuit proceeded without incident. During the landing flare, the pitch attitude appeared slightly nose-low to the pilot in command, though it was deemed acceptable for touchdown. Upon contact with the water, the owner failed to maintain back pressure on the elevator control. Consequently, the floats dug into the surface, causing the aircraft to pitch forward violently and nosed over.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational dynamics of the landing phase and the specific actions taken by the individual at the controls. Examination of the event revealed that the primary mechanical failure was not involved; rather, the sequence of events was driven entirely by control inputs during the critical touchdown moment.
Findings
Contributing factors to this accident included the decision to allow an inexperienced operator to fly a specialized aircraft type and the subsequent loss of control during landing. The owner's failure to hold back pressure on the elevator resulted in the floats digging in, leading to the nosedown attitude.
The pilot in command permitted the demonstration flight despite knowing the owner had no floatplane experience. The accident occurred due to improper control input during landing. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft sustained significant damage.