Engine failure and river ditching near Ubon Ratchathani Airport

No fatalities • Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure shortly after takeoff from Ubon Ratchathani Airport, resulting in an emergency water landing in the Mun River.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Ubon Ratchathani Airport, the aircraft suffered a simultaneous loss of power in both engines. Faced with the loss of propulsion, the pilot performed an emergency ditching maneuver into the Mun River, situated approximately two kilometers south of the airport perimeter.

Despite the impact with the water, all eight crew members were successfully rescued from the wreckage. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the incident.

Findings

Investigations determined that the primary factor in the accident was the loss of engine power occurring during the climb immediately after takeoff.

Probable cause

The engines lost power during the initial climb for reasons that remain undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-06-07 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand?

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure shortly after takeoff from Ubon Ratchathani Airport, resulting in an emergency water landing in the Mun River.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-06-07 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-06-07 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 43-49547, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engines lost power during the initial climb for reasons that remain undetermined.

Loading the flight search…