Seaplane down in China

[floatman]

So what would induce a Chinese operator to draw float/amphibious pilots from a country that has such a dismal record in that sector? Is it because we're so good at it or is it because we'll be willing to take bigger risks or is it because there a so many seaplane pilots in Canada that you might just get a good one if you look hard?

Culture is for petri dishes.

Very harsh IMO.

You'll find lots of good float pilots in Canada and you don't have to look hard. Loads of ones who don't take big risks and who don't think they are "that good". Just professionals who take their jobs seriously and perform it safely.

Idiots are idiots. They are in every industry. VFR into IMC on a Garmin 295 is an idiot move and it's not limited to Canadians.

[geodoc]

Looks like it's down to pilot error per the investigation so far:

http://www.shanghaidaily.com/metro/soci ... aily.shtml




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[pdw]

"Investigators have also checked the waters there and found no hindrances that could affect the plane's operation" he said ("XU WEI, a city government spokesperson"/ in news article above).

The small bay alone could be a hindrance with the wrong component, but no wx-hist available there (to check it out).

Maiden voyage is just after purchase where short takeoff distance requirement is usually going to be adequately highlighed (is advertised as very able aircraft in most sales pitches). If purchasers or their reps are on board, there could also be a factor there of trying to impress, which might some have precedence already in other synopses from past accidents. Combine that with something else unforseen ... it becomes easier to imagine something more than merely a simple pilot error / mistake (ie a more complicated training matter).