1 fatality

1972-02-04: De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (393) — Air America — Pha Khao, Laos

Pha Khao, LaosLanding (descent or approach)

On February 4, 1972, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration 393) operated by Air America was involved in an aviation accident near Pha Khao, Laos during landing or approach. One person was killed. 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 1781234413Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft on final approach to Pha Khao Airstrip initiated go-around after runway obstruction, but left engine failed, leading to stall, impact, and subsequent runway excursion. One crew fatality and three injuries.

Incident Overview

During final approach to Pha Khao Airstrip (LS-14), the flight crew sighted an obstruction on the runway. The captain initiated a go-around. For an unknown reason, the left engine failed to respond. The aircraft stalled and struck the runway surface. After a heavy bounce, it went out of control and veered off the runway. The aircraft lost its undercarriage and right wing before coming to rest.

Occupants and Injuries

The aircraft was carrying 34 passengers, all Laotian military personnel, who were evacuated. Among the crew, one was killed and three others were injured. The crew consisted of pilot Gordon V. Smith, copilot D. M. Houston, flight engineer M. S. Bailey, and kicker Khamouth Sousadalay.

Aftermath

The aircraft came to rest off the runway after the loss of its undercarriage and right wing. No further details about the obstruction or the cause of the left engine failure were provided.