8 fatalities

Fatal Seaplane Crash During Training Mission Near Bermuda (6717)

Hamilton, BermudaFlight

On August 20, 1944, a Martin PBM Mariner (registration 6717) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Hamilton, Bermuda in flight. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the mishap. 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 seaplane crashed in a massive explosion approximately 20 miles north of Hamilton, Bermuda, during a training flight. All eight occupants on board were killed in the incident.

What happened

The aircraft was conducting a training mission when it lost control and descended into the water near Bermuda. The impact resulted in a huge explosion that destroyed the plane. This event occurred roughly twenty miles north of Hamilton, the capital city of Bermuda.

All eight individuals on board the seaplane were killed in the crash. There were no survivors reported from the incident. The severity of the post-impact fire and explosion contributed to the total loss of life among the crew and passengers present at the time.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident were unable to determine the exact cause of the mishap. Despite the thorough review of available evidence, authorities could not identify a specific mechanical failure or operational error that definitively triggered the loss of control. The investigation concluded without assigning a definitive probable cause due to the lack of conclusive data.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Aug 1944 Martin PBM Mariner accident near Hamilton, Bermuda?

A seaplane crashed in a massive explosion approximately 20 miles north of Hamilton, Bermuda, during a training flight. All eight occupants on board were killed in the incident.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Aug 1944 Martin PBM Mariner accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Aug 1944 involved a Martin PBM Mariner, registration 6717, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Hamilton, Bermuda.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the mishap.