20020127000569A

(.19) On January 27, 2002, about 1250 pacific standard time, an amphibian Piper PA-18-150, N4379Z, registered to and operated by the commercial pilot as a 14 CFR part 91 pleasure flight, nosed over on the Rogue river near eagle point, Oregon. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the commercial pilot and his passenger were not injured. The flight originated from a private airstrip near shady cove, Oregon, a short time earlier that day. During a telephone interview, the pilot reported that he took off from a private airstrip for a local flight in the area. During the flight, the pilot set-up for a landing on the Rogue river. Upon touchdown, the bow of the floats dug into the water and the aircraft nosed over. After the aircraft was recovered, it was noted that the nose wheels on the bow of the floats were broken off. A witness to the accident reported that they noticed that the nose wheels were extended when the aircraft touched down. (-23) pilot/owner of aircraft departed home base from shady cove airport for a joy ride with his 7 yr. Old son. He landed on the Rogue river near eagle point, Oregon with the landing gear in the down position. This aircraft equipped with amphibious wipline floats. Pilot stated that he was distracted by his son while landing and forgot to use his landing checklist. Aircraft had both front landing gear wheels broken off and damage to airframe and floats. Water temperature in river was 41 degrees f. no injuries to either person.