Accident Overview
An amphibious airplane experienced a capsize shortly after landing on a river. The pilot reported that after a normal touchdown, the aircraft turned upside down within five to ten seconds. Both the pilot and a passenger were able to exit the airplane into the water, and a nearby boater came to their assistance.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that he believed the airplane struck a submerged object in the water. He also noted that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Investigation Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) examined the right side of the airplane and found evidence indicating that the airplane had struck an object submerged in the water. Additionally, the ASI reported being informed that numerous recreational boats had struck debris near the accident site earlier in the same day. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Conclusion
The incident involved an amphibious airplane that capsized after a river landing, attributed to striking a submerged object. The occupants escaped without reported injury, and the aircraft was substantially damaged.