What happened
During a recent flight departure from Key West-Boca Chica Field NAS, an unidentified seaplane experienced a catastrophic loss of lift during its initial climb. The aircraft entered a stall state while ascending, leading to an impact with the water several hundred meters away from the coastline.
There were no survivors of the accident. The incident resulted in eight fatalities, accounting for all crew members on board at the time of the crash.
Findings
Official investigations into the wreckage and flight path determined that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was an engine failure. This mechanical malfunction occurred during the critical climb phase, preventing the aircraft from maintaining sufficient airspeed to avoid the stall.