Probably some GS6 FAA type trying to upgrade his "cheap suit" AND get a raise.
Lifejackets aren't required to be worn any more than a parachute.
Spent a year flying out of Palmer and the FAA stayed away from Bush Pilots. Saw Bush planes with oversize car wheets on them parked at the airport.
Lots of stories about FAA types getting the s**t kicked out of them for screwing with bush pilots.
10% overload was allowed up there then but don't know about these days. As far as not having a seat, it wasn't a factor as he drowned due to not having a vest on.
FAA guy in a cheap suit looking for a raise. Wish the pilot luck because we all know he has to live with it and it certainly wasn't intentional.
Airplanes do crash.