Attu Island | Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives

Following an uneventful mission, the crew was returning to Casco Cove Guard Station on Attu Island. On approach, the pilot realized that the sea was rough and decided to continue to the Massacre Bay where the situation seemed to be easier. On landing, the seaplane was hit by a wave and plunged into the sea. While all occupants were able to evacuate the cabin, the aircraft sank and was lost. It was carrying a cargo of 1,200 gallons of fuel and two bombs.

Probable cause:

Hit by wave while landing on rough sea.

Crash of a Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina off Attu

Date & Time: Mar 23, 1943

Type of aircraft:

Consolidated PBY Catalina

Operator:

Registration:

08409

Flight Phase:

Takeoff (climb)

Flight Type:

Cargo

Survivors:

Yes

Site:

Lake, Sea, Ocean, River

Location:

Attu Island

Alaska

Country:

United States of America

Region:

North America

Crew on board:

Crew fatalities:

Pax on board:

Pax fatalities:

Other fatalities:

Total fatalities:

Circumstances:

The seaplane was engaged in a cargo flight with a load consisting of 1,350 gallons of fuel in several drums and four bombs. Shortly after take off from the Attu-Casco Cove Coast Guard Station, at a height of few metres, the seaplane was unbalanced by a strong gust of wind coming from the right, lost height and crashed into the sea. All occupants were able to leave the cabin and a crew was slightly injured. The aircraft sunk by 90 feet deep 18 minutes later.

Probable cause:

Military officials stated that winds were strong at the time of the accident and that sea was raging. Four other planes were able to take off before this one but with great difficulty.