Casualties unknown

2004-09-24: Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4-200 (N44LD) — Jens Hoyt — New Milford, CT

New Milford, CT, US

On September 24, 2004, a Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4-200 (registration N44LD) operated by Jens Hoyt was involved in an aviation accident near New Milford, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flair, which resulted in a nose over. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During practice takeoffs and landings on a lake, the pilot flared just inches above water, causing the airplane to contact the water, flip over, and sink. The pilot had intended to flare at 1 foot but reported flaring lower.

Incident Summary

A pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings on a lake when, during the flare, the airplane contacted the water, flipped over, and subsequently sank. The pilot reported that he intended to flare the airplane about 1 foot above the water, but he believed he actually flared "just inches" above the surface.

Pilot's Account

According to the pilot, the water surface had a slight ripple, and he had a good peripheral view of the shoreline during the approach. Despite the intended flare height of 1 foot, the airplane struck the water at a lower altitude, causing it to flip and sink. The pilot did not report any injuries or damage specifics.

Conditions

The pilot described the water surface as having a slight ripple and noted that his peripheral view of the shoreline was good during the approach. No further details about the airplane, location, or time of day were provided.

Conclusion

The incident occurred during routine practice maneuvers on a lake. The pilot's report indicates that the flare was executed lower than intended, leading to the aircraft contacting the water and flipping over. The airplane sank following the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041005X01563. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.