12 fatalities

Loss of seaplane during maritime patrol flight (84769)

South China Sea, WorldFlight

On November 5, 1950, a Martin PBM Mariner (registration 84769) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near South China Sea, World in flight. 12 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 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane disappeared over the South China Sea while returning from a patrol mission, resulting in the deaths of all onboard.

What happened

During a return flight to its home base following a maritime patrol mission near the coast of Korea, a seaplane vanished. The aircraft was traversing the South China Sea when it crashed approximately 250 km east of Hong Kong. Following the impact, the aircraft sank into the ocean and has not been recovered.

All 12 crew members on board the aircraft perished in the accident. At this time, the specific circumstances surrounding the descent and subsequent loss of the aircraft remain unidentified.

Findings

There are currently no official findings regarding the crash, as the exact cause of the incident remains unknown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Nov 1950 Martin PBM Mariner accident near South China Sea, World?

A seaplane disappeared over the South China Sea while returning from a patrol mission, resulting in the deaths of all onboard.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Nov 1950 Martin PBM Mariner accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Nov 1950 involved a Martin PBM Mariner, registration 84769, operated by United States Navy - USN, at South China Sea, World.