On January 1, 1943, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration 04502) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, World during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control following a violent avoidance maneuver to prevent collision with a small boat during landing approach. 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.
A seaplane crashed into the water in the Southwest Pacific after the pilot executed a sharp turn to avoid a small boat, resulting in four fatalities among the crew.
What happened
During an approach for landing in the Southwest Pacific, the pilot of a seaplane spotted a small boat in the vicinity. To prevent a collision with the vessel, the pilot performed a violent maneuver. This abrupt action caused the aircraft to lose control and crash into the water. The incident resulted in significant loss of life, with four crew members killed in the accident.
Findings
The immediate cause of the crash was attributed to the evasive action taken by the pilot. The sharp maneuver executed to avoid the small boat led directly to the loss of control and subsequent impact with the sea surface.
Probable cause
Loss of control following a violent avoidance maneuver to prevent collision with a small boat during landing approach.
What happened in the 1 Jan 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Pacific Ocean, World?
A seaplane crashed into the water in the Southwest Pacific after the pilot executed a sharp turn to avoid a small boat, resulting in four fatalities among the crew.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 Jan 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jan 1943 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration 04502, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Pacific Ocean, World.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of control following a violent avoidance maneuver to prevent collision with a small boat during landing approach.
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