Pilot’s Failure To Maintain Clearance From The Water During A Low Pass Over A Lake

Location: Owinza, Idaho Accident Number: WPR25LA036
Date & Time: October 13, 2024, 11:40 Local Registration: N9493C
Aircraft: Cessna 180 Aircraft Damage: Unknown
Defining Event: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that he descended to make a low pass over Pettit Lake. He noted that the clear weather condition with no wind impacted his depth perception as the lake surface appeared glassy. During the low pass over the water, the pilot misjudged his altitude above the lake, and the airplanes main landing gear contacted the water. The airplane then bounced and impacted the water a second time before it came to rest and sank. 

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that could have precluded normal operation.

The airplane was not recovered.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from the water during a low pass over a lake. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov