Seaplane ditching at False Pass

No fatalities • False Pass, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A seaplane carrying four people sank after an emergency water landing near False Pass, following a suspected collision with a submerged object.

What happened

During a flight near False Pass, a seaplane performed an emergency landing on the surface of the water. During the process of ditching, the aircraft likely struck an underwater object, which caused the nose of the plane to dip downward into the water.

The impact resulted in the aircraft settling on the floor of the water body at a depth of approximately 110 feet. Despite the severity of the descent, all four occupants managed to exit the cabin successfully before the vessel submerged.

Findings

Preliminary assessments suggest that the primary reason for the loss of control during the landing was the impact with a submerged object. This collision caused the aircraft to lose its upright orientation and sink rapidly.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck an underwater object during its water landing, causing it to nose down and sink.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-06-22 Grumman G-21A Goose accident near False Pass, United States of America?

A seaplane carrying four people sank after an emergency water landing near False Pass, following a suspected collision with a submerged object.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-06-22 Grumman G-21A Goose accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-06-22 involved a Grumman G-21A Goose, registration N1513V, operated by Reeve Aleutian Airways - RAA, at False Pass, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck an underwater object during its water landing, causing it to nose down and sink.

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