1 Nov 2009: PIPER PA-18-150 — Richard Kluver

1 Nov 2009: PIPER PA-18-150 — Richard Kluver

No fatalities • Three Lakes, WI, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's improper flare and touchdown during the water landing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that he was landing the float equipped airplane on a lake. The winds were light and the lake had about 3 inch ripples on the water. He reported that the touchdown appeared normal, but a few seconds later the right wing went up and the left wing dipped in the water. The left wing was bent upward and sustained substantial damage. A witness reported that he observed the airplane flying slow over the water in a left bank when the airplane “dropped into the lake” with the left wing hitting the water. The pilot reported there was no mechanical malfunction of the airplane.

Contributing factors

  • cause Incorrect use/operation
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, vis 30sm

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