What happened
The accident occurred when the aircraft was on final approach to land at Ketchikan Airport. According to the pilot's statement, he decided to change runways at the last minute because of departing traffic. As the aircraft turned onto the base leg, the pilot reduced the throttle to idle.
He then attempted to advance the throttle but received no response from the engine. Unable to reach the runway, the pilot elected to perform a water landing with the landing gear extended. Upon impact with the water, the aircraft flipped over and came to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft following the recovery. Examination of the engine revealed no pre-impact anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The fuel system was found to be intact, and there was no evidence of fuel starvation or contamination prior to the event.
Findings
The pilot's decision to change runways late in the approach sequence placed the aircraft in a low-altitude, high-workload situation. The subsequent loss of engine power left insufficient altitude and airspeed to complete the landing on the runway. The choice to land on water with the gear down contributed to the severity of the impact.
Safety message
Pilots should avoid last-minute runway changes during final approach unless absolutely necessary. Maintaining a stable approach path is critical for safety, especially in congested airspace.