Summary
On May 29, 2010, a Lepow David A PRGSV AERDYN SEA REY (N713AC) was involved in an accident near Chester, PA. The accident resulted in 2 minor injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: The airplane’s collision with a submerged object during landing, which resulted in a nose-over.
The certified flight instructor (CFI) stated that the purpose of the flight was to practice glassy water landings. After taking off from Spitfire Aerodrome, 7N7, they flew to the Philadelphia Seaplane Base practice area and overflew the area to check the condition of the river. The CFI stated that there were “no obstacles or debris visible.” Shortly after touchdown, both pilots reported hearing a loud bang, and the airplane immediately nosed over. Both pilots exited the submerged airplane and sustained minor injuries. According to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector-in-charge, the wreckage showed damage consistent with striking a submerged object and the landing was performed in the correct configuration. The airplane incurred substantial damage to its canopy, hull, and tail.
This accident is documented in NTSB report ERA10CA287. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N713AC.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The airplane’s collision with a submerged object during landing, which resulted in a nose-over.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The certified flight instructor (CFI) stated that the purpose of the flight was to practice glassy water landings. After taking off from Spitfire Aerodrome, 7N7, they flew to the Philadelphia Seaplane Base practice area and overflew the area to check the condition of the river. The CFI stated that there were “no obstacles or debris visible.” Shortly after touchdown, both pilots reported hearing a loud bang, and the airplane immediately nosed over. Both pilots exited the submerged airplane and sustained minor injuries. According to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector-in-charge, the wreckage showed damage consistent with striking a submerged object and the landing was performed in the correct configuration. The airplane incurred substantial damage to its canopy, hull, and tail.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA10CA287