What happened
Shortly after departing from Punta Gorda, an aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 1,500 feet when the pilot notified air traffic control of an engine malfunction. This mechanical issue occurred approximately five minutes into the flight.
In response to the engine trouble, the pilot decided to attempt a return to the departure airport. However, the aircraft was unable to sustain its current altitude during the maneuver. To avoid a more uncontrolled descent, the pilot executed an emergency ditching approximately 3 km away from the coast.
Findings
- The aircraft was unable to maintain flight altitude following the onset of the engine problem.
- The engine problem necessitated the emergency water landing.
- The pilot was successfully rescued from the scene.
- The aircraft subsequently sank and is currently considered lost.