2 fatalities

Emergency landing accident near Phônsavan (B-130)

Phônsavan, LaosFlight

On November 26, 1960, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration B-130) operated by Air America was involved in an aviation accident near Phônsavan, Laos in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft became uncontrollable due to malfunctions in the elevator control system during an emergency landing attempt. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

An aircraft crash in the Plain of Jars resulted in two fatalities and one injury following a loss of control during an emergency descent.

What happened

During an attempt to perform an emergency landing in the Plain of Jars, the aircraft experienced significant mechanical issues involving the elevator controls. As the crew attempted to manage the flight, the plane became uncontrollable and descended into a crash site located near Phônsavan.

The incident resulted in two fatalities among the occupants. A third person on board sustained injuries during the impact.

Findings

  • The flight crew encountered elevator control problems prior to the loss of control.
  • The aircraft's descent became unmanageable following the onset of these control difficulties.

Probable cause

The aircraft became uncontrollable due to malfunctions in the elevator control system during an emergency landing attempt.