Accident Overview
A seaplane operating from Camp Fox on Santa Catalina Island experienced a left engine failure shortly after takeoff while cruising at low altitude. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, but the aircraft became unstable upon contacting the water surface. The left float separated, and the seaplane came to rest inverted before sinking. All 10 occupants were quickly rescued. The aircraft was not recovered.
Sequence of Events
Following departure from Camp Fox, the seaplane was in low-altitude cruise when the left engine lost power. The pilot elected to perform an emergency landing. During the approach, the seaplane struck the water surface in an unstable condition, resulting in the loss of the left float. The aircraft then inverted and subsequently sank. Rescue operations were promptly initiated, and all occupants were evacuated safely.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors identified include improper in-flight decisions, failure to follow approved procedures, improper operation of flight controls, improper emergency procedures, incorrect trim setting, left engine lost power, failure to feather the left propeller, inability to maintain altitude, landing cross-swell, separation of the float, and the aircraft sinking in the ocean.