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Seaplane lands hard after float contacts water during approach (N713SX)

Fish Lake, MN, US

On October 5, 2002, a Cessna 172L (registration N713SX) was involved in an aviation accident near Fish Lake, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper alignment and altitude during the final phase of the landing approach, resulting in the left float contacting the water before the right wing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting to land a seaplane experienced a hard landing when the left float struck the water before the right wing, despite maintaining altitude over glassy conditions.

What happened

The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting a landing approach for a seaplane. According to the pilot's report, the aircraft was approaching the designated landing area at an approximate altitude of 20 feet above the water surface prior to initiating a turn. The lake conditions were described as glassy at the southern end, with only light ripples present near the intended touchdown zone.

During the maneuver, the airplane's left float made contact with the water first. This initial impact was followed immediately by the right wing striking the surface. The sequence of events resulted in a hard landing scenario where the aircraft did not touch down on both floats simultaneously as typically expected for a stable approach.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain proper alignment and altitude during the final phase of the landing approach, resulting in the left float contacting the water before the right wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Oct 2002 Cessna 172L accident near Fish Lake, MN?

A pilot attempting to land a seaplane experienced a hard landing when the left float struck the water before the right wing, despite maintaining altitude over glassy conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Oct 2002 Cessna 172L accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Oct 2002 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N713SX, at Fish Lake, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain proper alignment and altitude during the final phase of the landing approach, resulting in the left float contacting the water before the right wing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021008X05299. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.