On October 23, 1971, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) operated by South Vietnamese Air Force was involved in an aviation accident near Quy Nhơn, Vietnam during landing or approach. 22 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft crashed short of the runway while attempting to land in heavy rainfall. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed a short distance from the runway at Qui Nhơn Airport during a heavy rainstorm, resulting in 22 fatalities.
What happened
During an approach to Qui Nhơn Airport, an aircraft encountered severe weather conditions characterized by intense rainfall. While performing the final approach phase of the flight, the plane impacted the ground several kilometers before reaching the runway threshold.
The accident resulted in a high number of casualties among those on board. Out of the total occupants, 22 fatalities were recorded, while one passenger sustained serious injuries.
Findings
The aircraft was operating in heavy rain at the time of the impact.
The crash occurred during the final approach phase of the flight sequence.
Probable cause
The aircraft crashed short of the runway while attempting to land in heavy rainfall.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Oct 1971 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Quy Nhơn, Vietnam?
An aircraft crashed a short distance from the runway at Qui Nhơn Airport during a heavy rainstorm, resulting in 22 fatalities.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Oct 1971 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 22 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Oct 1971 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), operated by South Vietnamese Air Force, at Quy Nhơn, Vietnam.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft crashed short of the runway while attempting to land in heavy rainfall.
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