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1968-02-24: Douglas DC-3 (XW-TAD) — Royal Air Lao — Ban Napa, Laos

Ban Napa, LaosFlight

On February 24, 1968, a Douglas DC-3 (registration XW-TAD) operated by Royal Air Lao was involved in an aviation accident near Ban Napa, Laos in flight. 37 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed the loss of control was the consequence of an engine failure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781239055Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on the first leg of a flight from Luang Namtha to Vientiane crashed into a mountain near Ban Napa, killing all 37 occupants, including tourists and two French citizens. The probable cause is believed to be an engine failure leading to loss of control.

Accident

An aircraft was operating a flight from Luang Namtha to Vientiane, with an intermediate stop scheduled in Sayaboury. During the first leg of the journey, the airplane went out of control and crashed onto the slope of a mountain in the region of Ban Napa. The wreckage was located a few hours after the accident.

Victims

All 37 occupants of the aircraft were killed in the crash. Among the deceased were several tourists and two French citizens. No survivors were found.

Investigation

Investigators examined the wreckage and flight data to determine the cause of the accident. The official findings were released as part of the investigation report.

Probable Cause

It is believed the loss of control was the consequence of an engine failure.

Engine failure

Related events

Same operator

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