Loss of aircraft during Linebacker II mission over Hanoi

No fatalities • Bạch Mai, Vietnam • Flight

An aircraft participating in the Linebacker II operation was downed by surface-to-air missile fire while flying over Vietnam, resulting in the capture of all crew members.

What happened

During the Linebacker II military operation over Vietnam, an aircraft departed from U-Tapao NAS in Thailand. The flight was manned by a total of six crew members. While operating in the airspace above Hanoi, the aircraft was struck by an SA-2 surface-to-air missile launched from the ground.

Following the impact from enemy fire, the aircraft lost stability and became uncontrollable. The plane subsequently crashed within the Bạch Mai district of Hanoi. Following the crash, all six crew members were taken into custody as prisoners of war.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft was a direct result of being hit by enemy surface-to-air missile fire during its mission flight phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by an SA-2 surface-to-air missile.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-12-21 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Bạch Mai, Vietnam?

An aircraft participating in the Linebacker II operation was downed by surface-to-air missile fire while flying over Vietnam, resulting in the capture of all crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-12-21 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-12-21 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 55-0050, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Bạch Mai, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?