Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 1-11 was a commercial flight operating as part of the airline’s service between Guam and Manila. On July 14, 1960, the flight encountered a critical situation mid-air due to mechanical failure, specifically with its engines. While traversing the waters near Polillo Island in the Philippines, the Lockheed Electra aircraft suffered a loss of power in multiple engines, prompting the flight crew to prepare for an emergency landing. The pilots executed a ditching procedure, a difficult maneuver requiring agility and precision, to land the aircraft on the water safely.

The ditching was relatively successful; however, despite the crew's best efforts, one passenger lost their life in the aftermath. Emergency services were alerted, and rescue operations quickly mobilized to assist the survivors. A total of 44 passengers sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe, further complicating the immediate response. The incident underscored the challenges of mid-air emergencies, particularly in overwater situations, leading to increased scrutiny on aircraft safety protocols.

In the days following the incident, investigations were initiated to determine the cause of the engine failures. This event raised awareness of maintenance practices and the need for more robust safety measures in the aviation industry, influencing regulations and operational standards in the years that followed.