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Four-engine aircraft shot down over Balikpapan (A72-196)

Balikpapan, IndonesiaFlight

On July 5, 1945, a Consolidated B-24 Liberator (registration A72-196) operated by Royal Australian Air Force - RAAF was involved in an aviation accident near Balikpapan, Indonesia in flight. 12 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was shot down by Japanese anti-aircraft fire during its approach phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine military aircraft was hit by Japanese anti-aircraft fire while approaching Balikpapan, resulting in the deaths of all 12 occupants on board.

What happened

During an approach to Balikpapan, a four-engine aircraft came under attack from Japanese anti-aircraft defenses. The source indicates the fire likely originated from a Japanese Navy vessel stationed in the harbor. The impact caused the plane to crash into an isolated area. Rescue teams located the wreckage several hours after the incident. All 12 occupants were killed in the event.

The aircraft was operated by the 24th Squadron. The crew consisted of eleven individuals, including a Squadron Leader and ten other ranks ranging from Flying Officers to Flight Sergeants. No survivors were reported from this engagement.

Probable cause

The aircraft was shot down by Japanese anti-aircraft fire during its approach phase.

Related events

Same operator

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