No fatalities

Float Plane Emergency Landing Near Río Hato (38-571)

Río Hato, PanamaFlight

On July 31, 1940, a Grumman G-21A Goose (registration 38-571) operated by United States Army Air Corps - USAAC (1926-1941) was involved in an aviation accident near Río Hato, Panama in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure in flight. 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 2026-08-27Data APIEditorial standards

A float plane forced to make an emergency landing near Río Hato after an engine failure, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the aircraft.

What happened

During flight, the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue that required immediate action from the pilot. The engine failed while airborne, compelling the aviator to initiate an emergency procedure. The pilot attempted to land the craft in the vicinity of Río Hato. Upon impact with the ground or water surface near this location, the float plane sustained significant structural damage. The incident resulted in the total loss of the aircraft, which was deemed damaged beyond repair. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board.

Findings

The official investigation concluded that the primary factor leading to the accident was the engine failure occurring during flight. This mechanical malfunction necessitated the emergency landing attempt, which ultimately resulted in the destruction of the airframe.

Probable cause

Engine failure in flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Jul 1940 Grumman G-21A Goose accident near Río Hato, Panama?

A float plane forced to make an emergency landing near Río Hato after an engine failure, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Jul 1940 Grumman G-21A Goose accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Jul 1940 involved a Grumman G-21A Goose, registration 38-571, operated by United States Army Air Corps - USAAC (1926-1941), at Río Hato, Panama.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure in flight.