Accident Overview
An amphibious float-equipped airplane was substantially damaged during a landing on a lake. The aircraft was equipped with retractable landing gear and floats for water operations. The accident occurred when the aircraft attempted to land on the lake surface.
Witness Reports
Witnesses observed the airplane approaching the lake with its wheels extended. One witness described the approach as "level and very routine." After the landing, attempts to rescue the pilot were unsuccessful.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination determined that all four wheels were in the down and locked position. The landing gear selector handle was found in the up position, which is consistent with a water landing configuration. The gear selector circuit breaker was in the open position, while the gear pump and gear advisory circuit breakers were closed.
Each main gear assembly was equipped with a mechanical gear position indicator, visible from the pilot and front passenger seats. These mechanical indicators were intact. Electrical continuity of the gear position switches, gear selector, and gear position indicator lights was confirmed. The gear retraction and extension hydraulic cylinders and linkages appeared undamaged, and the main and nose gear assemblies were intact. The hydraulic gear pump was tested after the accident and operated in both directions.
The aircraft's landing gear system appeared to be functional, with the gear selector handle positioned for water landing but the wheels remaining extended.