What happened
During a search operation for a missing B-29 and its crew from the 23rd Reconnaissance Squadron, which had been lost since November 7, 1948, the searching aircraft experienced significant technical difficulties. The airframe suffered multiple failures in both its navigation and radio communication systems. As these issues persisted, the aircraft eventually exhausted its fuel supply.
The pilot decided to ditch the plane in shallow waters located off Fais Island, approximately 250 kilometers northeast of Yap Island. Following the water landing, the aircraft sank and was subsequently lost. All ten crew members on board were safely rescued by the crew of a Navy Catalina.