Landing / Ground Loss of Control · NTSB MIA08LA138

Colyaer SL Freedom S100 — Limestone, AL

2 fatal High-time pilot
DateJuly 9, 2008
LocationLimestone, AL
AircraftColyaer SL Freedom S100
Purpose of flightPersonal
ConditionsDay · Visual Meteorological Cond
Phase / occurrenceLanding-flare/touchdown Loss of control on ground
Pilot age65
Pilot total time2,600 hrs · Experienced
Time in typeUnknown
Fatalities2

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of aircraft control for undetermined reasons while making a water landing.

NTSB findings

  • Not determined-Not determined-(general)-(general)-Unknown/Not determined - C
  • Environmental issues-Physical environment-Terrain-Water-Not specified

What happened

The private pilot was receiving 10 hours of transition training in the S-LSA seaplane from the pilot-rated passenger at the time of the accident. Witnesses stated that they did not see the accident but heard it; they then observed the airplane resting upside down in the water with one wing separated. Examination of the available wreckage did not reveal any evidence of preimpact failures or malfunctions. Examination of the landing gear revealed that it was retracted and undamaged. The main landing gear doors were separated from the hull structure and the gear door's hooks were intact and undamaged. Examination of the right flap attachment actuator found it consistent with a 10- to 15- degree flap-down position. The final position on the global positioning system (GPS) unit found in the wreckage placed the airplane near the accident site. The last calculated velocity and direction of travel was 72 miles per hour (ground speed) with a course of 229 degrees true. Based on the GPS tracklog and the examination of the airplane, the pilot was likely making a water landing at the time of the accident.

An editorial "what led to it / how to avoid it" analysis for this accident is generated separately and will appear here.

View the official NTSB docket →