6 fatalities

Transatlantic Seaplane Disappearance in the Atlantic Ocean (FP266)

Atlantic Ocean, WorldFlight

On December 25, 1942, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration FP266) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, World in flight. 6 people were killed. 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 2026-08-26Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane vanished without trace during a transatlantic flight from Canada to the United Kingdom, resulting in the loss of all six crew members.

What happened

During a scheduled transatlantic voyage from Canada to the United Kingdom, a seaplane failed to reach its intended destination. The aircraft was subsequently lost without trace and is believed to have crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. No wreckage or survivors were recovered. The flight carried a crew of six individuals, including two civilians: the pilot and the radio operator. The remaining four members were military personnel serving as aircrew.

Findings

The source material does not provide specific technical findings or a formal investigation report regarding the mechanical or environmental causes of the disappearance. The incident is recorded primarily as a total loss with no trace, where all persons on board perished.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Dec 1942 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Atlantic Ocean, World?

A seaplane vanished without trace during a transatlantic flight from Canada to the United Kingdom, resulting in the loss of all six crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Dec 1942 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Dec 1942 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration FP266, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Atlantic Ocean, World.