On August 22, 1984, a Cessna 172 (registration N737LZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Winter Haven, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the flare, resulting in a glassy water landing and subsequent nosedown impact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A seaplane nosed over after landing on suddenly glassy water during a checkout flight. The certified flight instructor reported the water conditions changed abruptly as they flared for landing.
What happened
The aircraft landed on glassy water in a nose-low attitude and subsequently nosed over. The certified flight instructor, who was conducting a check-out for an applicant seeking a seaplane rating, stated that he was preparing to call for or had actually pulled the nose up as the floats contacted the water and began to submerge. According to the instructor, the water surface had abruptly changed to a glassy condition as they flared for the landing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances of the landing and the immediate reaction of the crew. The certified flight instructor provided a statement regarding the sudden change in water conditions during the final phase of the approach.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the flare, resulting in a glassy water landing and subsequent nosedown impact.
What happened in the 22 Aug 1984 Cessna 172 accident near Winter Haven, FL?
A seaplane nosed over after landing on suddenly glassy water during a checkout flight. The certified flight instructor reported the water conditions changed abruptly as they flared for landing.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Aug 1984 Cessna 172 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Aug 1984 involved a Cessna 172, registration N737LZ, at Winter Haven, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the flare, resulting in a glassy water landing and subsequent nosedown impact.
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