Aircraft crash during final approach short of runway

No fatalities • Mae Hong Son, Thailand • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway during its final approach, resulting in no injuries but significant damage to the airframe.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight, an aircraft descended below the required altitude and struck the ground before reaching the runway. The impact occurred at a location short of the landing strip under circumstances that remain under investigation.

Following the impact, all 21 occupants successfully exited the cabin. Despite the intensity of the event, there were zero injuries reported among those on board. However, the structural damage sustained by the aircraft was severe enough to render it a total loss, as the airframe was deemed beyond repair.

Findings

Initial observations indicate that the aircraft was flying at an insufficient altitude during its approach to the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft was flying too low during the final approach phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-05-07 Douglas DC-3 accident near Mae Hong Son, Thailand?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway during its final approach, resulting in no injuries but significant damage to the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-05-07 Douglas DC-3 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-05-07 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration HS-TDE, operated by Thai Airways International, at Mae Hong Son, Thailand.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was flying too low during the final approach phase.

Loading the flight search…