28 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident near Sandoway Airport (XY-ACM)

Sandoway, MyanmarTakeoff (climb)

On August 16, 1972, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration XY-ACM) operated by Union of Burma Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Sandoway, Myanmar during takeoff. 28 people were killed. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the Gulf of Bengal shortly after departing Sandoway Airport, resulting in 28 fatalities and three survivors.

What happened

During a recent aviation accident, an aircraft experienced a loss of control during its initial climb phase. The incident occurred shortly after the plane departed from Sandoway Airport. While ascending, the aircraft became unstable and subsequently impacted the waters of the Gulf of Bengal.

Search and rescue operations following the crash resulted in the recovery of three passengers. However, the accident claimed the lives of 28 other individuals on board.

Findings

The specific technical reasons for the loss of control have not been detailed in the available reports, but the aircraft's descent into the sea occurred during the climb immediately following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Aug 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Sandoway, Myanmar?

An aircraft crashed into the Gulf of Bengal shortly after departing Sandoway Airport, resulting in 28 fatalities and three survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Aug 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 28 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Aug 1972 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration XY-ACM, operated by Union of Burma Airways, at Sandoway, Myanmar.