Incident Overview
A pilot departed St. John's, Newfoundland on a flight intended to ferry the aircraft to Shannon, Ireland. At approximately 1500 AST, the Gander Area Control Center received a distress call from the aircraft. The pilot reported an engine problem and stated he was preparing to ditch.
Search Efforts
Eleven aircraft and two surface vessels searched the area. Despite these efforts, neither the pilot nor the aircraft was found.
Weather Conditions
A weather ship in the area reported low ceilings, wind from the west at about 16 knots, air temperature of 32°F, water temperature of 42°F, and wave height of about 30 feet. These conditions prevailed during the search period, with visibility reducing to 2 miles in rain, sleet, and snow.
Presumed Outcomes
Based on the circumstances, the pilot was presumed to have died from injuries or drowning after ditching the aircraft in heavy sea conditions. The aircraft was presumed to have been destroyed.