On September 2, 1995, a Champion 7GCBC (registration N9033L) was involved in an aviation accident near Big Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent rate during a curving approach to glassy water, resulting in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A float-equipped aircraft sustained damage to its left float and strut after a hard landing on glassy water during a curving approach with excessive descent rate.
What happened
The pilot was operating a float-equipped airplane while conducting a landing operation on a lake. The approach path involved a curved trajectory toward the glassy water surface. During this phase of the landing approach, the aircraft experienced an excessive rate of descent. Just prior to touchdown, the pilot applied engine power in an attempt to mitigate the impact. Despite this input, the airplane contacted the water with significant force.
The investigation
Post-incident examination revealed structural damage resulting from the hard landing. The left float sustained damage, as did the left float strut. Additionally, the fuselage of the aircraft was damaged during the event.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent rate during a curving approach to glassy water, resulting in a hard landing.