Originally Posted by
Maoraigh1
The four bodies are outside the aircraft. Possibly a controlled ditching near the shore, with everyone able to get out, but not survive in the cold water. Aircraft drifts away from shore before sinking.
Hmmm, since the pilot was experienced in that area he would have been aware that even a controlled a ditching in these water temperatures would almost not be survivable without a proper survival suit.
Glide ratio of a 172 isn't exactly great but most engine failures don't come totally out of the blue from one second to the next.