Aircraft shot down during initial climb

1 fatality • Phan Thiết, Vietnam • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft was destroyed after being struck by ground fire from communist rebels during its ascent, resulting in one fatality.

What happened

During the early stages of flight, specifically while performing an initial climb shortly after departure, the aircraft was targeted and hit by gunfire from communist rebel forces. Following the impact, the pilot-in-command attempted to execute a return to the departure point; however, the damage or circumstances necessitated an emergency landing attempt.

The aircraft subsequently crash-landed in a field, resulting in the total loss of the airframe. Among the occupants, there was one fatality and 13 injuries reported.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft was the direct result of being shot down by communist rebels during the climb phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by ground fire from communist rebel forces during its ascent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-05-03 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Phan Thiết, Vietnam?

An aircraft was destroyed after being struck by ground fire from communist rebels during its ascent, resulting in one fatality.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-05-03 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-05-03 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration F-BEIB, operated by Société de Transports Aériens en Extrême-Orient - STAEO, at Phan Thiết, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck by ground fire from communist rebel forces during its ascent.

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