Martin M.130 accident at Pacific Ocean, World, 29 Jul 1938 (NC14714)
On July 29, 1938, a Martin M.130 (registration NC14714) operated by Pan American World Airways - PAA was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, World in flight. 15 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: In conclusion, it appears that the only definite facts established up to the present time, are that between 0411 and 0412 G.C.T on July 29, was a failure of communication between the ground and the Clippers. 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.
Probable cause
In conclusion, it appears that the only definite facts established up to the present time, are that between 0411 and 0412 G.C.T on July 29, was a failure of communication between the ground and the Clippers. Communication was not thereafter reestablished, and that no trace of the aircraft has since been discovered. A number of theories have been advanced about the possible basic cause of or reason for the disappearance of the Clipper. The Board has considered each of them. Some have not been disproved and some have been contradicted by the facts. However, the Investigating fecls that this report cannot properly include a discussion of conjection unsupported by developed facts. The Board, therefore, respectfully submit this report with the thought that additional evidence may yet be discovered and the investigation completed at that time.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The float plane was on a transpacific flight from San Francisco to Manila with two intermediate stops in Honolulu and Guam Island. En route, the aircraft named 'Hawaiian Clipper' crashed in unknown circumstances into the ocean. SAR operations were initiated but eventually suspended after few weeks as no trace of the aircraft nor the 15 occupants was found. Crew: Leo Terletsky, pilot, Mark A. Walker, copilot, George M. Davis, Second Officer, Jose M. Sauceda, Third Officer, John W. Jewett, Fourth Officer, William McGarty, Radio, Howard L. Cox, Engineer, T. B. Tatum, Assistant Engineer, Ivan Parker, Steward. Passengers: Earl B. McKinley, Fred C. Meier, Edward E. Wyman, Kenneth A. Kennedy, Howard C. French, Choy Wah Sun.
Probable cause (official findings): In conclusion, it appears that the only definite facts established up to the present time, are that between 0411 and 0412 G.C.T on July 29, was a failure of communication between the ground and the Clippers. Communication was not thereafter reestablished, and that no trace of the aircraft has since been discovered. A number of theories have been advanced about the possible basic cause of or reason for the disappearance of the Clipper. The Board has considered each of them. Some have not been disproved and some have been contradicted by the facts. However, the Investigating fecls that this report cannot properly include a discussion of conjection unsupported by developed facts. The Board, therefore, respectfully submit this report with the thought that additional evidence may yet be discovered and the investigation completed at that time.