NTSB Factual Report

On December 30, 2005, about 1640 central standard time, an amphibious Aviat Aircraft, Inc., A-1B, N841CF, registered to HuskyAire, LLC, experienced a hard landing on Lake Martin, Alexander City, Alabama. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight from Lake Dewitt, Equality, Alabama, to Willow Point Airport, Our Town, Alabama. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private-rated pilot, the sole occupant was not injured. The flight originated about 1625 from Lake Dewitt.

The pilot stated that after takeoff the flight proceeded to the destination airport which he circled several times then elected to proceed to Lake Martin where he elected to perform a "splash and go" landing. When near the lake he noticed glassy water conditions and established himself on a long gradual descent. During the approach he reviewed the glassy water landing procedures in his mind and maintained 150-200 feet-per-minute rate of descent. At a time in the flight when he thought the airplane, "should have touched down by now...", he heard a loud sound and the airplane became airborne. The floats departed the airplane and he applied full power to climb, but the airplane would not climb. While in a tail-low attitude the airplane contacted the water. He exited the airplane and was rescued by an individual in a boat who responded to the scene. He further stated there was no mechanical malfunction or failure.

NTSB Probable Cause

The failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain the proper rate of descent during approach for landing to the glassy water resulting in a hard landing and separation of the floats.