2 fatalities

1971-02-14: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (N55L) — Continental Air Services — Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia

Phnom Penh-Pochentong, CambodiaTakeoff (climb)

On February 14, 1971, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N55L) operated by Continental Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Phnom Penh-Pochentong, Cambodia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine on the right side of the aircraft failed and exploded for undetermined reasons. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781235480Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed shortly after departing Phnom Penh-Pochentong Airport following an engine explosion, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Phnom Penh-Pochentong Airport, the aircraft experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure. The right engine underwent an explosion and subsequently ignited a fire.

As the fire spread, the flight crew lost control of the aircraft. The plane descended into the ground while engulfed in flames. There were two fatalities among the crew members on board during the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was a failure and explosion of the right engine, though the specific underlying reason for this mechanical malfunction remains unidentified.

Probable cause

The engine on the right side of the aircraft failed and exploded for undetermined reasons.