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Seaplane strikes reef near Wundi Island during landing (Y-87)

Wundi Island, IndonesiaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 13, 1946, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration Y-87) operated by Royal Netherlands Navy - Marineluchtvaartdienst (MLD) was involved in an aviation accident near Wundi Island, Indonesia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with a reef during the landing phase near Wundi Island. 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 2026-08-25Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane struck a reef while attempting to land off Wundi Island, resulting in the total loss of the aircraft. No injuries were reported among those on board.

What happened

During a landing approach near Wundi Island, a seaplane encountered a submerged hazard. The aircraft made contact with a reef and subsequently sank into the water. Despite the impact and the subsequent sinking, there were no casualties reported. The incident resulted in the total loss of the airframe.

Findings

The primary factor leading to the accident was the collision with the reef during the landing phase. While specific operational details or environmental conditions are not detailed in the available records, the physical impact with the underwater structure caused the aircraft to sink.

Probable cause

Collision with a reef during the landing phase near Wundi Island.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Oct 1946 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Wundi Island, Indonesia?

A seaplane struck a reef while attempting to land off Wundi Island, resulting in the total loss of the aircraft. No injuries were reported among those on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Oct 1946 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Oct 1946 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration Y-87, operated by Royal Netherlands Navy - Marineluchtvaartdienst (MLD), at Wundi Island, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with a reef during the landing phase near Wundi Island.

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