18 fatalities

Aircraft Carrying Algerian Journalists Crashes on Approach to Hanoi (XW-TCA)

Hanoi, VietnamLanding (descent or approach)

On March 8, 1974, an Antonov AN-24 (registration XW-TCA) operated by Pathet Lao Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Hanoi, Vietnam during landing or approach. 18 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft carrying a delegation of 15 Algerian journalists covering President Boumediene's visit to Vietnam crashed on approach to Hanoi Airport, killing all 18 occupants. The cause remains unknown.

Incident Overview

On approach to Hanoi Airport, an aircraft carrying a delegation of 15 Algerian journalists crashed and was destroyed. The delegation was covering the official visit of Algerian President Houari Boumediene in Vietnam. All 18 occupants on board were killed in the accident.

Occupants

The passengers included journalists and media professionals: Saleh Dib, Abderrahmane Kahwadji, Mahmoud Midat, Mustapha Kaboub, Abdelkader Bouhmia, Mohamed Bekaï, Laâredj Boutrif, Rabah Haned, Sebti Mouaki (Algerian television), Ahmed Abdelatif, Mohamed Taleb (photograph), Mohamed Sahraoui, Tayeb Harket, Djilali Djedar, and Mohamed Attalah (APS). The total number of occupants was 18.

Investigation

The cause of the crash has not been determined. Investigators have not released any findings regarding the reason for the accident.