Accident Details
According to the investigation, an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) serving as pilot-in-command was checking out another pilot, who held a commercial pilot certificate, in the aircraft. While the commercial pilot was performing a takeoff from a touch-and-go landing, the aircraft lost altitude and subsequently collided with water.
Pilot Statements
The commercial pilot stated that he was looking for the flap control at the time of the accident. The pilot-in-command reported that he was searching for charts inside his flight bag and did not realize the aircraft was losing altitude until just before impact. The pilot-in-command noted that visibility was 3 miles with haze.
Evacuation and Damage
Both pilots evacuated safely from the aircraft. The aircraft was lost as a result of the collision.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings list the following:
- Occurrence #1: In-flight collision with terrain/water during the phase of operation of takeoff - initial climb.
- Findings:
- Touch-and-go – performed by copilot/second pilot.
- Weather condition: haze/smoke.
- Proper climb rate – not maintained by copilot/second pilot.
- Diverted attention – copilot/second pilot.
- Supervision – inadequate by pilot in command.
- Complacency – pilot in command.
- Terrain condition – water, rough.