At approximately 1645 Central time, the amphibian-float-equipped airplane was substantially damaged during landing. The airline transport pilot was fatally injured. Visual conditions prevailed.
Witnesses observed the airplane as it approached a lake, making a gradual descent as if to land. The witness said the airplane did not level off as it got closer to the water. Another witness said, “Rather than a normal seaplane landing, what I saw was the plane hit the water and flip. There was so much spray that I could not tell if the plane flipped more than once.” Post-crash examination confirmed the landing gear extension handle was in the retracted position.
