22 fatalities

Aircraft crash into sea near Talina Island shortly after takeoff (12434)

Telin Island (Russell Islands), Solomon IslandsTakeoff (climb)

On February 5, 1944, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration 12434) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Telin Island (Russell Islands), Solomon Islands during takeoff. 22 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 2026-08-25Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea a short distance from Talina Island during the initial climb phase following departure, resulting in the deaths of all 22 people on board.

What happened

The incident occurred immediately after the aircraft departed Talina Island, also referred to as Telin Island. During the initial climb phase, shortly after takeoff, the machine lost control and impacted the water surface. The crash site was located just a few yards from the shoreline. There were no survivors in this event; all 22 occupants perished in the accident.

Findings

The specific circumstances leading to the loss of the aircraft remain unknown based on the available data. No further details regarding mechanical failure, weather conditions, or pilot actions have been established in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Feb 1944 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Telin Island (Russell Islands), Solomon Islands?

An aircraft crashed into the sea a short distance from Talina Island during the initial climb phase following departure, resulting in the deaths of all 22 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Feb 1944 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 22 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Feb 1944 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 12434, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Telin Island (Russell Islands), Solomon Islands.