Accident Overview
A single-engine airplane, conducting a night over-water arrival, impacted the water approximately 7 nautical miles north-northeast of the destination airport. The pilot had reported the airport in sight and canceled VFR advisories with air traffic control. After receiving acknowledgment and instructions to squawk 1200, the pilot acknowledged the transmission at 0257:10, after which no further radio communications occurred.
Flight Sequence
At 0257:08, the encoded altimeter indicated the airplane at 1,200 feet, while radar data showed it descending at a ground speed between 183 and 189 knots. The final radar targets depicted the airplane at 200 feet, heading approximately 213 degrees, with ground speed increasing to nearly 200 knots. Subsequently, the airplane descended into the water.
Investigation Findings
Recovered wreckage underwent examination. Flight control continuity was confirmed with no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The landing gear and flaps were found in the retracted position. The engine, recovered and later started after replacement of missing components, operated normally. The propeller, recovered nearly 1 year and 4 months post-accident, showed no preimpact failure or malfunction.
Before the accident, the airplane owner reported that at about 1900 hours, prior to the first leg of the flight, the pilot had advised he was tired due to his work and flying schedule. The owner indicated he was unaware the pilot intended to continue flying after that conversation.