4 fatalities

1954-04-04: Douglas C-54 Skymaster (F-BFGQ) — Compagnie Autrex-Lopez-Loreta-Le Breton — Hanoi-Gia Lâm, Vietnam

Hanoi-Gia Lâm, VietnamLanding (descent or approach)

On April 4, 1954, a Douglas C-54 Skymaster (registration F-BFGQ) operated by Compagnie Autrex-Lopez-Loreta-Le Breton was involved in an aviation accident near Hanoi-Gia Lâm, Vietnam during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck trees and crashed after maintaining an altitude that was too low during the final approach phase. 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 1781252259Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the Red River after striking trees during its final approach to Hanoi-Gia Lâm Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight toward Hanoi-Gia Lâm Airport, an unidentified aircraft descended below a safe altitude. While maneuvering for landing, the plane made contact with trees in the vicinity of the airfield. Following this impact, the aircraft proceeded to crash into the Red River.

All four crew members on board were killed in the accident. There were no other occupants reported in the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations indicate that the primary reason for the accident was that the aircraft was flying at an insufficient altitude during its approach to the airport.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck trees and crashed after maintaining an altitude that was too low during the final approach phase.