3 fatalities

1956-04-18: Consolidated PBY Catalina (PP-PDB) — Panair do Brasil — Parintins, Brazil

Parintins, BrazilLanding (descent or approach)

On April 18, 1956, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration PP-PDB) operated by Panair do Brasil was involved in an aviation accident near Parintins, Brazil during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a submerged object while attempting to land on the Amazon River. 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 1781250286Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane crash during landing on the Amazon River resulted in three fatalities and nine survivors after the aircraft struck a submerged object.

What happened

During an approach to land on the Amazon River near the vicinity of Parintins, a seaplane encountered a significant obstacle beneath the water's surface. Upon impact with this submerged object, the aircraft lost its forward momentum and came to a complete stop. Following the collision, the vessel began to take on water and partially submerged.

Emergency response efforts led to the successful rescue of nine individuals from the wreckage. However, the accident resulted in three fatalities, which included both the pilot and the radio operator.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the aircraft striking an unidentified object located beneath the river surface during the landing phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a submerged object while attempting to land on the Amazon River.