What happened
Following its departure from Phnom Penh-Pochentong Airport, the aircraft encountered mechanical difficulties during its initial climb. In response to these technical issues, the crew notified air traffic control of their intention to return to the departure airport.
While attempting to descend and rejoin the airport, the pilot found that the aircraft could not maintain the necessary altitude to complete the landing at the runway. Consequently, an emergency attempt was made to land the plane in a rice paddy field situated approximately 25 km west of Phnom Penh. The impact caused the aircraft to break into multiple fragments upon coming to a stop.
Findings
- The crew successfully executed an emergency landing in a field.
- All five crew members were recovered from the wreckage.
- Among the survivors, one person sustained injuries during the incident.