These November 2009 accident reports are provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, they are intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Piper Super Cub.Injuries: None. Location: Three Lakes, Wis. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot, who was attempting to land the float-equipped airplane on a lake, said the winds were light and there were ripples on the water. The airplane touchdown was normal, but a few seconds later the right wing went up and the left wing hit the water. The impact with the water bent the wing.
According to a witness, the airplane was flying slow over the water in a left bank when it appeared to drop into the lake left wing first.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper flare and touchdown during the water landing.
For more information: NTSB.gov NTSB Identification: CEN10CA038