A Cinnamon Air Cessna 208 Caravan Amphibian, registered 4R-CAE, was involved in a seaplane accident at Gregory Lake, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on 7th January 2026, while attempting to land in strong and gusty wind conditions. Both pilots on board were rescued shortly after the occurrence and admitted to hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed that no passengers were on board, limiting the severity of the outcome.
Following the incident, aviation authorities initiated procedures in accordance with ICAO Annex 13, which governs the investigation of aircraft accidents and incidents. Under these international standards, the occurrence is expected to be formally classified, after which a structured investigation process will follow. This includes the appointment of an Accident and Incident Investigation Board (AAIB), selection of an independent investigation panel, and systematic recovery and preservation of evidence from the aircraft and the operating environment.
A key element of the Annex 13 process is transparency and accountability. Investigators are required to issue a preliminary report within 30 days, outlining known facts and initial safety issues, followed by a comprehensive final report within 12 months, detailing causal factors, contributing elements and safety recommendations aimed at preventing recurrence.
Commenting on the wider implications of the event, Iroshan Kulatunga, Sri Lankan Seaplane Expert, Aircraft Engineer and Director & Founder of KuleAir Aviation Solutions, emphasized that the investigation must be thorough, independent and free from speculation.
“A properly conducted ICAO-compliant investigation is essential, not to apportion blame, but to establish facts. Clearing this incident transparently is vital for maintaining confidence in Sri Lanka’s seaplane operations and for strengthening the country’s aviation safety culture. If done correctly, this investigation can become a positive benchmark for the future,” he stated.
Industry observers note that seaplane operations present unique operational challenges, including weather variability, water surface conditions and limited margins during take-off and landing. As such, the findings from the Gregory Lake investigation are expected to be closely watched by operators, regulators, and insurers alike, with potential implications for operational procedures, pilot training and regulatory oversight.
Authorities have indicated that further official updates will be released as the investigation progresses, once factual data collection and analysis are completed.
