On December 4, 2010, a Piper Malibu, re-engined with a PT-6 turboprop under a supplemental type certificate, took off from Cozumel, Mexico, heading north. It never made it. Instead, according to press reports, more than two hours after takeoff and while in cruise at FL260, the turbine engine stopped producing power, 288
Overwater Gear
On December 4, 2010, a Piper Malibu, re-engined with a PT-6 turboprop under a supplemental type certificate, took off from Cozumel, Mexico, heading north. It never made it. Instead, according to press reports, more than two hours after takeoff and while in cruise at FL260, the turbine engine stopped producing power, turning the pressurized single into a glider. It took about 25 minutes for the Piper to glide down to the Gulf of Mexico, where it was successfully ditched close to an oil rig. The ditching site was some 170 miles south of New Orleans, the planes destination.
Key Takeaways:
- A successful overwater ditching underscores the critical importance of carrying specialized survival gear for flights beyond land.
- Essential overwater survival equipment falls into three main categories: flotation (life rafts, inflatable life vests), signaling (GPS-enabled Personal Locator Beacons are crucial), and basic provisions (water, high-energy food).
- Key recommendations include selecting a life raft larger than your aircraft's seating capacity with a canopy and multiple air chambers, and consistently wearing inflatable life vests.
- Pilots must account for the weight and proper storage of this gear, which, though not FAA-mandated for private operations, is strongly advised for safety.
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