What happened
On June 23, 2023, an ICON-A5 amphibious aircraft, registration N764BA, operated by Robins Aircraft Co., took off from the water at Donam Port, Tongyeong. During the initial water takeoff, the pilot encountered a malfunction where the nose landing gear failed to retract. Despite following the procedures outlined in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), the gear remained extended.
Approximately 20 minutes into the flight, the pilot attempted a water landing at the entrance of Donam Port. During this approach, the aircraft experienced porpoising, which startled the pilot and prompted an unintended balked landing. In an effort to avoid surrounding obstacles, including mountains and buildings, the pilot executed a steep right turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced a stall and a subsequent loss of control, resulting in a collision with the port's access bridge. The impact destroyed the aircraft and caused partial damage to the bridge. The pilot sustained serious injuries, including scalp lacerations.
The investigation
The ARAIB examined the aircraft's Engine Control Unit (ECU) data, which indicated that the engine was operating normally. Investigators also analyzed fuel and oil specimens. While the unused fuel and oil met all specifications, the samples recovered from the wreckage contained significant moisture due to seawater influx following the crash. Chemical analysis of the engine oil revealed additional metal elements, such as copper and nickel, which were likely the result of normal engine abrasion, while the presence of sodium was attributed to seawater contamination.
Findings
- The pilot's medical and professional qualifications were found to be valid, with no identified medical issues affecting flight safety.
- The nose landing gear failed to retract during the initial water takeoff, and the pilot was unable to resolve the issue using standard procedures.
- The pilot attempted a water landing with the nose gear in the extended position.
- During the landing attempt, the pilot was startled by porpoising, leading to a balked landing and an increase in power.
- The pilot failed to retract the flaps following the balked landing, as required by the POH.
- The aircraft entered a stall during a steep turn intended to avoid terrain and structures.
- The pilot's power setting during the maneuver was approximately 5,000 RPM, which was below the maximum continuous power of 5,500 RPM.