Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a water landing. A factor contributing to the accident was the rough water.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On July 1, 2003, at 2002 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172M, N172DE, piloted by a private pilot, sustained substantial damage when it nosed over while landing on Higgins Lake, Roscommon, Michigan. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The pilot reported minor injuries. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was not operating on a flight plan. The flight originated from Higgins Lake at 1940 with an intended destination of Fife Lake, Michigan.
The pilot reported he performed a normal approach and touchdown to the lake. The pilot noted the pontoon of the airplane hit a wave or a wake while landing. The pilot stated the airplane bounced and came to rest inverted.
The pilot reported no mechanical functions or defects with the airplane during the accident flight.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI03LA194