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Consolidated PBY Catalina accident at Gavutu Island, Solomon Islands, 24 Mar 1943 (08136)

Gavutu Island, Solomon IslandsTakeoff (climb)

On March 24, 1943, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration 08136) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Gavutu Island, Solomon Islands during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Both engines failed during a sharp turn after water in the fuel tanks was sucked into the carburetors. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

Probable cause

Both engines failed during a sharp turn after water in the fuel tanks was sucked into the carburetors.

— the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A) Determination

Accident narrative

Following a combat mission over the Gavutu Island, the seaplane was returning to its base in Luganville with 10 passengers and five crew members on board. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot initiated a sharp turn when both engines stopped. He attempted an emergency landing but the seaplane hit the water surface 1,2 km offshore and came to rest. All 15 occupants evacuate and were rescued while the airplane sank by a depth of 20 metres and was lost. Crew (VP-44): Lt Jarlath J. Lyons +4.

Probable cause (official findings): Both engines failed during a sharp turn after water in the fuel tanks was sucked into the carburetors.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Mar 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Gavutu Island, Solomon Islands?

Following a combat mission over the Gavutu Island, the seaplane was returning to its base in Luganville with 10 passengers and five crew members on board. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot initiated a sharp turn when both engines stopped. He attempted an emergency landing but the seaplane hit the water surface 1,2 km…

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Mar 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Mar 1943 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration 08136, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Gavutu Island, Solomon Islands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Both engines failed during a sharp turn after water in the fuel tanks was sucked into the carburetors.

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