Inadvertently Extended The Landing Gear On Approach And Landed On The Water

Location: ANOKA, MN Accident Number: CEN20CA164
Date & Time: 04/30/2020, 1400 CDT Registration: N1669M
Aircraft: Cessna A185 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Landing gear not configured Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The pilot reported that he was conducting a local flight to gain familiarity with the amphibious airplane's recently installed avionics. During a runway change at his home (land) airport, the pilot elected to conduct a water landing to a lake about 12 miles north, during which he inadvertently extended the landing gear on approach and landed on the water with the wheels extended. The airplane immediately nosed over and came to rest inverted in the water substantially damaging both wings.

The pilot exited the airplane by feeling with his hand along the edge of the front seat backrest and rotating the door handle. Although he did not recall doing so, the pilot unfastened his fourpoint harness, then maneuvered to exit "like a snake" and was rescued by a nearby boat. The pilot credited his practice of giving thorough emergency exit briefings to his passengers as contributing to his successful exit.

The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov