Accident Overview
A supply airplane operating from Vientiane-Wattay Airport crashed while approaching a drop zone. The flight was carrying two crew members and two passengers, along with a load of 2,780 pounds of food. During the approach, the pilot executed a steep left turn while flying below the cloud base. The aircraft stalled and subsequently impacted terrain.
Occupants and Casualties
Three of the four occupants were killed in the crash. One passenger survived.
Circumstances
The accident occurred as the aircraft descended toward the drop zone. The pilot-in-command initiated a steep left turn. The aircraft's airspeed was insufficient for the maneuver, leading to an aerodynamic stall. The airplane was unable to recover and crashed.
Probable Cause
The aircraft's speed was too low during the last turn, causing it to stall and to crash.