What happened
During a night landing operation in the harbor of Port-Étienne, a seaplane operated by the 27F Squadron capsized. The accident occurred as the aircraft was attempting to touch down on the water at night. The impact or subsequent movement caused the aircraft to overturn, trapping several members of the crew.
In the immediate aftermath of the overturned aircraft, there were three fatalities and eight injuries reported among the personnel on board. The crew included pilots, radio operators, navigators, mechanics, and gunners. Following the initial accident, the situation worsened as two of the survivors succumbed to their injuries a few hours later.
Findings
- The aircraft was performing a landing maneuver in a harbor environment.
- The incident took place during nighttime operations.
- Total fatalities eventually reached five following the deaths of two injured crew members.