On 9th January 1944, Consolidated Catalina FP193 of No. 131 Operational Training Unit crashed in Lough Erne near Boa Island, Co. Fermanagh. The Mark IB plane took off from RAF Killadeas, Co. Fermanagh at 0915hrs, taking part in a non-operational low-level bombing exercise. While making a second run over Lough Erne, the plane dived into the water.
Reports suggest the pilot failed to pull out of a diving turn, crashing half a mile away from Boa Island, Co. Fermanagh into the calm waters. Flame floats on board the plane ignited as the plane went under, setting fire to the oil and petrol on the water.
Of the 10-man crew, 7 died in the incident. A further 3 occupants escaped with injuries.