NTSB Factual Report

The left float separated from the amphibian airplane during a water landing. The non-seaplane rated private pilot was landing a float-equipped airplane on a lake, when the left float was torn from the aircraft. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector, that responded to the accident site, witnesses observed that the airplane landed hard. The airplane sustained structural damage and partially sank into the lake. Additionally, the 250-hours pilot reported that there were no anomalies or malfunctions with the airplane prior to the mishap. The pilot further stated that he "could have collided with an unknown object during the landing."

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper landing flare, resulting in a hard landing.