On July 30, 1942, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration 7291) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Unalaska, United States of America in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crash was primarily caused by poor visibility and glassy water resulting from marginal weather and sea conditions, with pilot fatigue acting as a contributing factor. 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 ocean near Dutch Harbor while flying at low altitude in marginal weather, resulting in five fatalities and three injuries among the crew.
What happened
The incident occurred during a flight conducted at cruise speed and low height. The aircraft was operating in marginal weather conditions when it struck the water surface off Dutch Harbor. The impact resulted in significant casualties, with five crew members killed and three others sustaining injuries.
Findings
Official investigations attributed the accident largely to the state of the weather and sea conditions. Specifically, poor visibility and glassy water surfaces were identified as primary factors. Additionally, pilot fatigue was cited as a contributing cause to the event.
Probable cause
The crash was primarily caused by poor visibility and glassy water resulting from marginal weather and sea conditions, with pilot fatigue acting as a contributing factor.
What happened in the 30 Jul 1942 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Unalaska, United States of America?
A seaplane crashed into the ocean near Dutch Harbor while flying at low altitude in marginal weather, resulting in five fatalities and three injuries among the crew.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 1942 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jul 1942 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration 7291, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Unalaska, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crash was primarily caused by poor visibility and glassy water resulting from marginal weather and sea conditions, with pilot fatigue acting as a contributing factor.
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