Accident Overview
A pilot flying a general aviation airplane reported that an optical illusion led to a collision with a freshwater reservoir. The pilot, who was also the pilot-in-command, was the sole survivor of the accident.
Flight Details
According to the pilot, he and another pilot (a passenger) flew to a freshwater reservoir. During the flight, they took turns performing wing overs and tight turns. They decided to make a 360-degree turn over the water before returning to the departure airport.
The Accident
While turning over glassy water, the combination of the water surface, sun, haze, and the color of the background terrain created an optical illusion. The pilot stated that he lost reference to the horizon approximately halfway through the turn, and the airplane subsequently collided with the water.
Post-Accident Actions
The pilot survived the accident and egressed from the airplane as it began to sink. He was unable to rescue the other occupant. No mechanical problems with the airplane were reported.