Government Unveils Newly Declassified Amelia Earhart Disappearance Records

The U.S. National Archives has released newly declassified records concerning the legendary aviator Amelia Earhart. A total of 4,624 pages were unveiled, detailing critical information about Earhart’s mysterious disappearance during her flight in 1937.

Key Facts from the Newly Declassified Records

The documents provide insights into Earhart’s last moments and the extensive search efforts that followed. On July 2, 1937, she transmitted a final message stating, “We are on the line 157 337 wl rept msg we wl rept…” This transmission was logged shortly before she disappeared over the Pacific Ocean.

Details of the Search Operation

The U.S. Navy launched a search operation that lasted 16 days, from July 2 to July 18, 1937. The search covered nearly 250,000 square miles of ocean and utilized ships such as the USS Colorado and USS Lexington. PBY-1 seaplanes were also deployed, scouring a 25,000-square-mile area daily.

• The last confirmed transmission was at 1912 GMT, near coordinates 157° east longitude and 337° south latitude.
• Four potential landing sites were identified, including McKean Island and Gardner Island (Nikumaroro).
• Seven credible distress signals were detected between July 2 and July 6, 1937, with two coming from near Gardner Island.

Speculations and Findings

Among the notable observations, McKean Island exhibited signs of recent disturbances, and Gardner Island showed potential evidence of habitation. Lockheed Electra performance charts recalculated Earhart’s fuel endurance, suggesting she might have flown beyond Howland Island.

Despite these extensive search efforts, no aircraft remains were ever discovered. The Navy’s report concluded with the stark finding that “no evidence of aircraft remains was discovered within the search radius.”

Navy Support and International Response

In November 1936, the Navy expressed its intention to assist in refueling Earhart’s plane at Midway Island as part of her ambitious world flight. Although the Navy did not fund her journey, they offered logistical support.

Internationally, Japan extended condolences following Earhart’s disappearance. A diplomatic letter from Japan remarked on the tragedy and emphasized their commitment to assisting in recovery efforts near the Marshall Islands.

Future Releases of Earhart Files

The release of these documents was announced by the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. She indicated that more records would be made public as they are identified. This initiative aligns with former President Donald Trump’s commitment to declassifying Amelia Earhart-related files.

The newly declassified records not only shed light on a historic aviation mystery but also reignite interest in the life and legacy of Amelia Earhart, a prominent figure in American history.