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Fatal Takeoff Accident Involving an Overweight Aircraft (L-207)

Xieng Dat, LaosTakeoff (climb)

On April 6, 1962, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration L-207) operated by Air America was involved in an aviation accident near Xieng Dat, Laos during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident resulted from an insufficient runway, with the aircraft being too heavy for the takeoff roll. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during takeoff after hitting a tree stump on the runway. The accident, caused by an insufficient runway and excessive weight, resulted in the deaths of all four people on board.

Accident Overview and Cause of the Crash An aircraft was involved in a fatal takeoff accident that occurred because the runway was insufficient for the operation. The investigation indicated that the aircraft was too heavy for the conditions, contributing to the accident. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft struck a tree stump located on the right side of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to cartwheel and immediately burst into flames. The fire and crash resulted in the deaths of all four individuals on board. The fatalities included two pilots and two MAAG soldiers. The crew members identified in the source are William H. Beale Jr., who served as pilot, and George A. Varney, who also served as pilot.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from an insufficient runway, with the aircraft being too heavy for the takeoff roll.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Apr 1962 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Xieng Dat, Laos?

An aircraft crashed during takeoff after hitting a tree stump on the runway. The accident, caused by an insufficient runway and excessive weight, resulted in the deaths of all four people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Apr 1962 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Apr 1962 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration L-207, operated by Air America, at Xieng Dat, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident resulted from an insufficient runway, with the aircraft being too heavy for the takeoff roll.

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