Accident Narrative
On August 28, 2009, at approximately 0648 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna TU206G amphibious airplane, registration N682RC, nosed over during a landing in Shilshole Bay, Ballard, Washington. The flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The airplane originated from Bremerton, Washington, about 0630.
Pilot's Report
The pilot, who also owned the aircraft, reported to the National Transportation Safety Board investigator that approximately 15 minutes after departing Bremerton National Airport, an electrical problem occurred, resulting in a total loss of electric current. The fuel gauges subsequently indicated empty, prompting concern about flying over populated areas. Instead of continuing to the intended destination of Payne Field in Everett, Washington, the pilot chose to land in Shilshole Bay marina to verify fuel quantity and investigate the electrical issue.
The pilot stated that he attempted to raise the landing gear using the emergency gear retraction hand pump. He confirmed that both front gear retracted into the pontoons, but the left main aft gear remained extended and did not fully retract.
During the water touchdown, the extended gear caused the left pontoon to lift, resulting in the right wing tip contacting the water. The airplane then pitched forward, nosed over, and came to rest inverted in the salt water. The pilot further noted that the gear position indicator was inoperative due to the loss of electrical power.
Post-Accident Examination
Following recovery of the airplane from the water, Federal Aviation Administration representatives examined it. Due to the airplane's immersion, no determination could be made regarding the preimpact functionality of the electrical system.