Accident
The seaplane named 'La Calypso volante' was returning to Lisbon following a scientific mission. During the landing on the Tagus River off Alverca, the seaplane touched down hard. The impact caused the left wing to separate from the aircraft. Subsequently, the left engine struck the cockpit. The pilot, Philippe Cousteau, son of the French explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, was killed in the accident. Seven other occupants sustained injuries.
Investigation
Official investigators were unable to determine the exact cause of the accident. However, they believe that the speed upon landing was slightly too high, which may have contributed to the hard touchdown and subsequent structural failure. No further details regarding the cause were provided in the official findings.
Aftermath
The accident resulted in the death of the pilot and injuries to the other seven individuals on board. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including the separation of the left wing and impact damage to the cockpit from the left engine.