On September 5, 2000, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N603C) operated by John P. Gross was involved in an aviation accident near Yakutat, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area. Factors associated with the accident were the oil sprayed windshield, the sunglare, and an object in the water which the pilot did not see. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A seaplane flipped over upon landing; the pilot reported glare and oil spray. An FAA inspection found damage to the right float, possibly from an underwater object.
Incident Overview
A seaplane pilot reported that during the landing, glare from the water and oil spray on the windscreen obscured visibility. The aircraft touched down and immediately flipped over, according to the pilot's account.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he does not know whether he dragged one of the float tips in the water or struck an object that he could not see due to the sun glare. The sequence of events occurred rapidly after touchdown.
Postaccident Inspection
An FAA inspector conducted a postaccident examination and found damage to the bottom of the right float. The inspector noted that the damage was consistent with a possible impact with an object in the water.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Sept 2000 Stinson 108-3 accident near Yakutat, AK?
A seaplane flipped over upon landing; the pilot reported glare and oil spray. An FAA inspection found damage to the right float, possibly from an underwater object.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Sept 2000 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N603C, operated by John P. Gross, at Yakutat, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area. Factors associated with the accident were the oil sprayed windshield, the sunglare, and an object in the water which the pilot did not see.
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