What happened
Following the shoot-down of a USN Neptune aircraft near Swatow Island, a US Coast Guard seaplane was deployed to assist in a rescue mission. Prior to the accident, the eleven crew members from the downed Neptune had been successfully moved to the USS Halsey Powell.
During the attempt to depart from turbulent waters, the seaplane lost control of its flight path. The aircraft crashed into the sea during the takeoff phase. This accident resulted in nine fatalities, including five members of the USCG crew.
Findings
- The crash occurred while the aircraft was attempting to lift off from rough seas.