N573TB

Substantial
None

BAUER THOMAS G KITFOX IIIS/N: 1016

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, December 20, 2014
NTSB Number
ERA15CA080
Location
Bumpass, VA
Event ID
20141224X94026
Coordinates
37.959926, -77.729675
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper flare during a water landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
BAUER THOMAS G
Serial Number
1016
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2008
Model / ICAO
KITFOX IIIFK9
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
KITFOX III

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
SMITH KEN S
Address
9090 STATE HIGHWAY 42
City
FISH CREEK
State / Zip Code
WI 54212-9717
Country
United States

Analysis

According to the pilot he and his passenger departed from a lake marina on a local flight to conduct water take offs and landings. The flight was uneventful, but during the landing approach, the pilot reported that he misjudged the flare height due to the lack of visual reference on the water surface. He flared the airplane high and subsequently landed hard. Post-accident investigation revealed that the left forward float strut attachment point and lower left frame tube was sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA15CA080