Bell P-39Q 44-3645

Identification & Site Information #

  #

Aircraft Type Description #

The P-39Q Airacobra was a significant fighter aircraft during World War II, known for its unique mid-engine design and powerful 37mm cannon mounted in the nose. These features made the Airacobra a versatile aircraft capable of both air-to-air combat and ground-attack missions. The aircraft’s tricycle landing gear was another innovative feature that set it apart from other fighters of its era.

This aircraft saw extensive service with several Allied air forces, including the United States Army Air Force (USAAF), the Soviet Air Force, and the Free French Air Force. On the Eastern Front, Soviet pilots especially valued the P-39Q for its effectiveness in low-altitude combat, where its robust construction and firepower proved crucial.

History #

On January 25, 1944, a P-39Q Airacobra was conducting a mission over the waters of Lake Ontario, near Galloo Island. The exact details of the mission and the circumstances leading to the aircraft’s crash are not fully known. However, it is believed that the P-39Q encountered difficulties, possibly due to combat damage, mechanical failure, or adverse weather conditions, ultimately leading to its crash into the lake.

The aircraft sank quickly in the cold waters of Lake Ontario, near Galloo Island. The P-39Q joined the ranks of many other wartime vessels and aircraft that now rest on the lakebed, serving as silent witnesses to the intense conflicts of World War II.

Final Disposition #

The P-39Q Airacobra lies at the bottom of Lake Ontario, near Galloo Island. The wreckage, like many other sunken relics from the war, has become an object of interest for underwater archaeologists, historians, and aviation enthusiasts. While the exact coordinates of the wreck remain undisclosed, the site is significant as a piece of both aviation and maritime history.

The aircraft’s resting place in Lake Ontario is a reminder of the perils faced by those who served during World War II. The lake, which has claimed many ships and planes, now holds the remains of this once-powerful fighter, adding to the rich tapestry of underwater history in the Great Lakes region.

Legacy and Aftermath #

The P-39Q Airacobra’s crash near Galloo Island is a poignant chapter in the broader narrative of World War II. The aircraft, which played a vital role in the Allied war effort, particularly in the Soviet Union, now rests beneath the waters of Lake Ontario. The wreck serves as a testament to the bravery of the pilots who flew these machines and the sacrifices made during the war.

Efforts to locate and study wrecks like the P-39Q continue, providing valuable insights into the events of the past. The Canadian Harvard Association, along with other organizations dedicated to preserving aviation history, plays a crucial role in these efforts, helping to ensure that the stories of these aircraft and their crews are not forgotten.

Resources & Links #