Overview
A float-equipped airplane operated by a commercial pilot was involved in an accident while maneuvering at low altitude for a water landing. The pilot encountered low visibility caused by ground fog and initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the airplane struck the water, bounced, and struck the water a second time before coming to rest upright. The airplane subsequently sank, and all four occupants were later rescued.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was maneuvering the airplane for a water landing when low visibility due to ground fog reduced situational awareness. A go-around was commenced, but the airplane impacted the water, rebounded, and impacted again. After the second impact, the airplane came to rest upright and then sank. Rescue operations successfully extracted all four occupants.
Pilot and Operator Statements
The pilot reported that no mechanical anomalies with the airplane precluded normal operation. The operator added that other company pilots flying on the day of the accident stated that the low visibility conditions were easily avoided by a slight course deviation.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause, as determined by the investigation, is the pilot's decision to land in an area of low visibility and ground fog, which resulted in collision with water.