Accident Overview
A vintage Piper J3 aircraft equipped with floats was involved in an accident on the Colorado River. The pilot was conducting sightseeing rides, operating from an island adjacent to a residential area.
Flight Description
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying up and down the river at an altitude of 40 to 50 feet. They reported that the pilot executed course reversals by pulling the nose up, turning 180 degrees, and then leveling out just above the water.
Accident Sequence
During one such course reversal at low altitude, the airplane descended into the river. Details regarding the aircraft's condition or the pilot's status were not provided in the source.
Weather Conditions
Warm temperatures and gusty winds were reported at the time of the accident.