Accident Sequence
According to radar data, after takeoff the airplane climbed to 200 feet and then descended to 100 feet. The pilot was advised to turn right to pass behind the approach corridor for a departing airplane. Witnesses observed the airplane flying toward buildings at an estimated altitude of 50–100 feet above the water. The airplane then began banking to the right, increasing to nearly a 90-degree angle of bank. Subsequently, the airplane pitched nose down and impacted the water with the nose and right wing low. It rolled inverted and sank in about 6 feet of water, approximately 20 yards from a seawall.
Examination Findings
Examination and testing of the right magneto revealed that the point gap measured 0.018 inch, greater than the manufacturer's specification. The magneto fired intermittently throughout the entire rpm range. After adjusting the point gap to within limits, the magneto operated normally. The engine was then run with replacement magnetos installed, with their point gaps set as found on the accident magnetos. During the right magneto check, the rpm drop was 156 rpm greater than during the left magneto check. Damage was also noted to the #1 cylinder top ignition lead.
Additionally, examination of the aft bottom section of the right float revealed numerous damaged rivets joining the keel to the bottom skin panel near the aft bulkhead.