3 fatalities

Night maritime patrol seaplane crash near Palau (48189)

Koror, PalauFlight

On October 6, 1944, a Martin PBM Mariner (registration 48189) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Koror, Palau in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Unknown technical failure. 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 conducting a night patrol over the Pacific Ocean crashed and sank approximately 200 km off Koror, Palau, after the pilot attempted an emergency landing due to technical issues. Three crew members were killed while seven were rescued.

What happened

The incident occurred during a night maritime patrol mission over the Pacific Ocean. While en route, the pilot reported encountering unclear technical difficulties. In response to these issues, the operator reduced altitude with the intention of making an emergency landing. Upon touching down, the seaplane overturned and subsequently sank in waters located roughly 200 kilometers off the coast of Koror, Palau Island.

Findings

Rescue operations resulted in the survival of seven crew members. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives in the accident. Official investigations identified an unknown technical failure as the probable cause of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Oct 1944 Martin PBM Mariner accident near Koror, Palau?

A seaplane conducting a night patrol over the Pacific Ocean crashed and sank approximately 200 km off Koror, Palau, after the pilot attempted an emergency landing due to technical issues. Three crew members were killed while seven were rescued.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Oct 1944 Martin PBM Mariner accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Oct 1944 involved a Martin PBM Mariner, registration 48189, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Koror, Palau.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Unknown technical failure