Check this out if you want to see a sudden stop. In another version of this, I read where the passenger was holding a video camera and it went through the windshield.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pucmWr55cgw

180Marty wrote:Check this out if you want to see a sudden stop. In another version of this, I read where the passenger was holding a video camera and it went through the windshield.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pucmWr55cgw

Something goes flying forward in this video as well. Maybe it's the prop, but sure looks like something coming out of the windscreen...

low rider wrote: Any amphibian pilots out there want to chime in on the Routine?Amphibs are an overall pain in the ass with unbelievable rewards.Focus Jedi warrior

To your second point, agreed!
To your first question, several thoughts.

I. Ways to reduce the risk of landing on water with the gear down.

A. Consistent routines
1. After rotation from runway: "Positive rate-verified, gear-up". Everytime.
2. Approaching water, visually match blue water with blue lights on panel.
3. Look out window at float deck and call out "pin and bolts visible"
(Can be adapted to your float hardware.)

B. Install this: http://www.lakeandair.com/product-p/9600.htm

The visual and audio advisory is integrated into the Aerocet system. I adjusted the low airspeed activation down a bit on my plane. At about 80 MPH, if the gear is up a female voice announces "Gear is up for water landing". If the gear is down, a male voice announces "Gear is down for runway landing".

II. Ways to improve odds of surviving a wheels-down water upset.

A. Shoulder harness. Preferably 4 point. Preferably BAS quick release.
B. ALWAYS wear your PFD if planning a water landing.
C. Go get egress training. Bryan Webster in BC, Southern Seaplane, etc.

After spending a day with "Bry the Dunk Guy" in Victoria, BC, I was amazed at how valuable that sort of training is. I grew up on a lake, operating small outboards, water skiing, etc. I've done many triathlons, including 2.4 mile open ocean swims for Ironman, open water SCUBA certified, and figured I could handle myself in and around water. The first time they rolled me in the SWET chair and I had to open the door, grab the PFD in front of me, unbuckle, and get out, even though I knew it was going to happen, and even though it was in a warm swimming pool, it was surprisingly difficult.

If I wasn't wearing the PFD, several times I forgot or didn't want to grab it in my rush to get out. If you're not wearing it, you likely won't have it if/when you get out.

As with most training, after several times, it gets better. I can only imagine what it's like after that horrific high-G deceleration, flip over, cold water rushing in, etc.

I upgraded to a Switlik Molle vest. http://www.switlik.com/aviation/xback. It's pricey and for me, worth it. I attached a zipper pouch on one side that contains a McMurdo Fast Find PLB, and a few small survival items. The other side holds a HEED spare air bottle. http://www.heed3.com/. Assuming I survive and am able to egress, the HEED (by giving me a few breaths of air) may allow me to assist a passenger. I am at the low end of the normal range of how long I can hold my breath underwater. I figured I could use this help. Like paying insurance, I hope I never have to use any of this training and equipment!

Safe splashing,

Pierre