What happened
During a scheduled local test flight on Lake Constance, a new seaplane prototype was undergoing operational evaluations. As the aircraft approached the water for its landing phase, the plane struck the surface and subsequently overturned, coming to rest in an inverted position.
While the aircraft sustained significant damage and was eventually deemed beyond repair, it was successfully salvaged from the site. The incident resulted in two injuries involving the crew members on board.
Findings
Investigations into the accident revealed that the landing gear had not been retracted following the previous takeoff. Consequently, when the aircraft reached the water, the extended gear made contact with the surface first, triggering the capsize. The investigation also highlighted a lack of coordination among the crew and a failure to adhere to the established pre-landing checklist procedures.