What happened
On 27 February 2019, a Flylight Lightfly-Discus, registration G-CEOL, was conducting a private flight near Oban, Argyll. The flight originated from a local farmer's field. While traversing the center of the adjacent Holy Loch, the pilot elected to perform a water landing.
During the approach and touchdown, the aircraft's wheels remained extended. This caused the aircraft to pitch forward upon contact with the water, subsequently resulting in the aircraft capsizing to the left. The pilot was able to climb onto the upturned hull of the aircraft following the incident. While emergency services attended the scene, the aircraft eventually required towing back to the shore. The aircraft sustained damage to the wing and a bent front strut, but the pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the pilot's procedures for water landings, specifically focusing on a checklist known as the ‘WOODS’ check. This protocol is designed to verify wind conditions, wheels, obstructions, objects, depth, and security before touching the water.
It was established that the pilot had failed to complete the full checklist on this occasion. Because the wind conditions were negligible, the pilot had omitted the check for the wheels position.