On April 10, 1993, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N2218M) operated by Central FL Float Flyers, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Bartow, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS. THE DOWNDRAFT WAS A FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane on approach encountered a downdraft and descended, causing the right float to impact the water. Both occupants exited the aircraft safely. No mechanical failure was reported.
Incident Details
During a landing approach to the south, the airplane was flying 5 to 10 feet above the water on the east side of the lake, near the shore. The aircraft was in a right-wing-low attitude due to a crosswind from the right. According to the pilot, the airplane encountered a downdraft and subsequently descended. The right float then struck the water, and the airplane came to rest in approximately 4 feet of water.
Occupant Status
Both occupants exited the airplane after the incident.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there was no airframe or engine failure or malfunction. The aircraft was under control until the downdraft was encountered.
What happened in the 10 Apr 1993 Piper J3C-65 accident near Bartow, FL?
An airplane on approach encountered a downdraft and descended, causing the right float to impact the water. Both occupants exited the aircraft safely. No mechanical failure was reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Apr 1993 Piper J3C-65 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Apr 1993 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N2218M, operated by Central FL Float Flyers, Inc., at Bartow, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS. THE DOWNDRAFT WAS A FACTOR.
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