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Landing gear collapse during arrival at Pochentong Airport (XW-PKK)

Phnom Penh-Pochentong, CambodiaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 15, 1973, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration XW-PKK) operated by Air Union Laos was involved in an aviation accident near Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The collapse of the aircraft's landing gear upon touchdown led to a loss of control on the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a landing gear failure upon touchdown at Pochentong Airport, resulting in an uncontrolled excursion.

What happened

During the arrival phase of flight at Pochentong Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure immediately following contact with the runway. As the plane touched down, the landing gear collapsed, causing the operator to lose control of the vehicle.

The aircraft subsequently veered off its intended path and came to a final position after the loss of directional stability. Despite the impact and the subsequent excursion, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the structural failure of the landing gear during the touchdown sequence.

Probable cause

The collapse of the aircraft's landing gear upon touchdown led to a loss of control on the runway.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Dec 1973 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia?

An aircraft experienced a landing gear failure upon touchdown at Pochentong Airport, resulting in an uncontrolled excursion.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Dec 1973 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Dec 1973 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration XW-PKK, operated by Air Union Laos, at Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the aircraft's landing gear upon touchdown led to a loss of control on the runway.

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