Accident Details
The flight departed Marseille-Marignane Airport with three other similar aircraft to conduct a training mission in the bay of La Ciotat. Following several scooping maneuvers, the crew simulated an engine failure and performed a complete landing. During the landing, the aircraft experienced severe vibrations. The crew increased engine power in an attempt to take off, but the seaplane overturned and came to rest inverted. The copilot sustained serious injuries, and the captain was killed.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the accident occurred because the hatches were open when the aircraft landed on the sea, causing severe vibrations and the subsequent loss of control.