What happened
During a flight traveling from Christiansted toward Charlotte Amalie, a seaplane experienced a loss of power in one of its engines while at cruising altitude. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot attempted an emergency ditching maneuver near St. Thomas Island. However, the aircraft struck the surface of the sea during the descent.
The accident resulted in four fatalities, including the pilot, and left seven other passengers injured. The aircraft was destroyed in the impact.
Findings
Investigations into the crash determined that the primary cause was an engine failure resulting from improper maintenance of the powerplant. Specifically, the investigation identified a fatigue fracture within the cylinder assembly of the engine structure.
Several contributing factors were noted during the inquiry, including:
- Errors in emergency procedures and flight planning decisions
- Insufficient oversight of the flight crew
- Deficiencies in the company's maintenance standards, equipment, and regulatory compliance
- Discrepancies regarding the aircraft's weight, as testing indicated a mass gross weight of 8,150 lbs despite an STC allowing for 8,750 lbs