The famous aviator Earhart and navigator Noonan disappeared in the final stage of their round-the-world flight over the Pacific. Officials concluded they ran out of fuel and crashed into the sea. Theories that she was captured by the Japanese in the Marshall Islands, or lived in seclusion in New Guinea, have long circulated. No definitive wreckage has ever been found.
Account
The famous aviator Earhart and navigator Noonan disappeared in the final stage of their round-the-world flight over the Pacific. Officials concluded they ran out of fuel and crashed into the sea. Theories that she was captured by the Japanese in the Marshall Islands, or lived in seclusion in New Guinea, have long circulated. No definitive wreckage has ever been found.
Contested
The official conclusion is fuel exhaustion and crash at sea. Alternative theories lack supporting evidence. The disappearance remains an open case.
Sources
- US Coast Guard and Navy search records
- Category I aviation accident archives
- historical investigation committee report