15 fatalities

Aviation Accident: Post-Takeoff Stall and Water Impact at Phú Quốc Island Airport

Phú Quốc Island, VietnamTakeoff (climb)

On July 7, 1973, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou operated by Vietnam People's Air Force (Không quân Nhân dân Việt Nam) was involved in an aviation accident near Phú Quốc Island, Vietnam during takeoff. 15 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during initial climb. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane stalled and crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Phú Quốc Island Airport. The incident resulted in 15 fatalities and 21 rescues, with most passengers identified as prisoners.

Incident Overview and Immediate Outcome An aircraft experienced a stall during the initial climb phase shortly after departing from Phú Quốc Island Airport. The airplane subsequently impacted the sea surface, coming to rest a few dozen meters offshore. The accident resulted in 15 fatalities, while 21 individuals were successfully rescued from the water. Demographic records indicated that the majority of the passengers on board were prisoners. ## Official Investigation Findings The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure during the initial climb. This mechanical failure occurred immediately after takeoff, leading to the loss of lift and the subsequent stall that caused the aircraft to crash into the sea.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jul 1973 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident near Phú Quốc Island, Vietnam?

An airplane stalled and crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Phú Quốc Island Airport. The incident resulted in 15 fatalities and 21 rescues, with most passengers identified as prisoners.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jul 1973 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 15 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jul 1973 involved a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou, operated by Vietnam People's Air Force (Không quân Nhân dân Việt Nam), at Phú Quốc Island, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure during initial climb