No fatalities

Aircraft Overrun After Landing at Wake Island Airport (PI-C291)

Wake Island, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 15, 1948, a Douglas DC-6 (registration PI-C291) operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL was involved in an aviation accident near Wake Island, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. 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 four-engine aircraft overshot the runway at Wake Island Airport after landing, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the airframe.

What happened

The incident occurred following a standard approach and touchdown at Wake Island Airport. Upon completing the landing phase, the four engine aircraft experienced significant difficulties during the deceleration process. The crew was unable to bring the plane to a halt within the available runway length, causing it to overrun the paved surface. The aircraft eventually came to rest off the airfield perimeter.

Despite the structural impact of the overland excursion, there were no casualties reported among the occupants. However, the extent of the damage sustained by the airframe was severe enough that it was subsequently declared a total loss and written off.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Nov 1948 Douglas DC-6 accident near Wake Island, United States of America?

A four-engine aircraft overshot the runway at Wake Island Airport after landing, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Nov 1948 Douglas DC-6 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Nov 1948 involved a Douglas DC-6, registration PI-C291, operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL, at Wake Island, United States of America.