Seaplane accident during takeoff at Laguna de Tres Palos

No fatalities • Laguna de Tres Palos, Mexico • Takeoff (climb)

A positioning flight involving a seaplane ended in an accident after the aircraft nose-dived into the water during its takeoff roll.

What happened

During a positioning flight from Laguna de Tres Palos to Acapulco-General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport, a seaplane experienced a critical malfunction during its departure. As the aircraft was performing its takeoff procedure, the crew observed the plane beginning to oscillate laterally between the left and right sides.

As the speed reached approximately 45 knots, the aircraft's nose suddenly dipped downward. This caused the plane to plunge into the water, where it eventually came to rest in an inverted and submerged position. The impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair. Despite the severity of the impact, both pilots managed to evacuate the aircraft safely without injury.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced significant lateral oscillations during the takeoff roll.
  • The sequence of events concluded with the aircraft nose-diving into the water at a speed of 45 knots.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced lateral oscillations that led to a nose-down pitch and subsequent impact with the water during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2014-10-24 Cessna 208A Caravan accident near Laguna de Tres Palos, Mexico?

A positioning flight involving a seaplane ended in an accident after the aircraft nose-dived into the water during its takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 2014-10-24 Cessna 208A Caravan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2014-10-24 involved a Cessna 208A Caravan, registration XA-WET, operated by FlyWet, at Laguna de Tres Palos, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced lateral oscillations that led to a nose-down pitch and subsequent impact with the water during takeoff.

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