No fatalities

1954-03-13: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (F-BCYI) — Compagnie Autrex-Lopez-Loreta-Le Breton — Phônsavan, Laos

Phônsavan, LaosLanding (descent or approach)

On March 13, 1954, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration F-BCYI) operated by Compagnie Autrex-Lopez-Loreta-Le Breton was involved in an aviation accident near Phônsavan, Laos during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was struck and brought down by enemy ground fire during its approach to the airport. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781252327Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft was struck by enemy fire during its approach to Phônsavan Airport, resulting in a crash and injuries to the crew.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward Phônsavan Airport, a twin engine aircraft was targeted by enemy ground fire. The impact of the gunfire caused the plane to lose control, leading to a crash located several kilometers from the airfield.

The incident resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. While there were no fatalities reported, all three crew members sustained injuries during the event.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by enemy fire while maneuvering for landing.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck and brought down by enemy ground fire during its approach to the airport.