On March 16, 1973, a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (registration 0-53323) operated by Khmer Air Force (Armée de l'air khmère) was involved in an aviation accident near Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the takeoff accident has not yet been determined. 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.
An aircraft sustained significant damage after crashing during its takeoff roll. The pilot sustained minor injuries in the incident.
What happened
During the initial phase of flight, an aircraft was involved in a crash while attempting to take off. The sequence of events began as the aircraft commenced its takeoff roll, but the flight ended prematurely when the plane struck the ground. Following the impact, the aircraft was determined to be a total loss, having sustained damage that rendered it beyond repair.
Findings
The pilot involved in the accident suffered slight injuries.
The specific reason for the crash remains unknown at this time.
The structural integrity of the airframe was compromised to the point of being unserviceable.
Probable cause
The cause of the takeoff accident has not yet been determined.