What happened
While operating in the cruise phase of flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of oil pressure in the number two engine. The crew found it impossible to maintain flight using only the remaining engine, as the pilot reported that applying power to the single operational engine resulted in overheating.
In an attempt to stay airborne, the crew descended to an altitude just above the water's surface, attempting to utilize ground effect to sustain flight. This maneuver was unsuccessful, forcing the crew to execute a ditching procedure. Upon impact with the water, the aircraft sustained significant damage and began flooding almost instantly, causing the vessel to sink.
Although the crew managed to escape the sinking aircraft, they were unable to recover emergency equipment before the plane went under. The crew remained in the water for approximately 20 hours before being rescued.
Findings
Investigations into the incident revealed that the pilot was operating without a valid pilot's certificate. Furthermore, there was no evidence to suggest that the pilot possessed any prior experience operating this specific aircraft type or any other seaplane. Because the aircraft was lost at the bottom of the sea, investigators were unable to identify the mechanical failure that caused the initial loss of oil pressure in the engine.