Aircraft shot down during supply mission

2 fatalities • Ban Phonemuang, Laos • Flight

An aircraft conducting a cargo delivery mission was destroyed by enemy ground fire, resulting in two fatalities and five prisoners of war.

What happened

During a scheduled logistics operation, an aircraft was transporting bags of rice to a specific destination. While the flight was maintaining a low-altitude cruise, the plane was struck by enemy fire. The impact caused the aircraft to crash into a prairie area.

As a result of the crash, two fatalities were recorded among the crew members. Additionally, five other individuals on board were captured and taken as prisoners of war following the incident.

Findings

Investigations into the destruction of the aircraft concluded that the primary reason for the loss was that the plane was shot down by enemy fire during its low-altitude flight phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by enemy weapons during a low-altitude supply mission.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1963-09-05 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Ban Phonemuang, Laos?

An aircraft conducting a cargo delivery mission was destroyed by enemy ground fire, resulting in two fatalities and five prisoners of war.

Were there any fatalities in the 1963-09-05 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1963-09-05 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration B-150, operated by Air America, at Ban Phonemuang, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by enemy weapons during a low-altitude supply mission.

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