What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Lihance Airport, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power due to an engine failure. In response to the mechanical issue, the pilot declared an emergency situation with air traffic control. While the flight crew was granted permission to perform an emergency return to the airport, the aircraft entered a stall. This resulted in the plane crashing into the ocean at a distance of several hundred yards from the coastline.
Following the impact, the aircraft submerged and was not subsequently retrieved from the seabed. Emergency responders were able to successfully locate and rescue the pilot from the scene. No other injuries or fatalities were reported during the incident.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was an engine malfunction. The specific underlying reason for this mechanical failure remains undetermined.