1 fatality

Cargo Aircraft Crashes on Approach to Nakhon Phanom Airport (43-49771)

Nakhon Phanom, ThailandLanding (descent or approach)

On November 21, 1972, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration 43-49771) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Nakhon Phanom, Thailand during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the accident was the consequence of a loss of control caused by the failure of the rudder control system. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A supply mission aircraft lost control and crashed in a wooded area near Nakhon Phanom Airport, killing two occupants and injuring eight others. The probable cause was rudder control system failure.

Accident Overview

On approach to Nakhon Phanom Airport following a supply mission, the aircraft went out of control and crashed in a wooded area near the airport. Two occupants were killed, while eight others were rescued. The deceased were identified as Captain Robert Alan Kohn and Master Sergeant John W. Ryon.

Official Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. According to the report, it is believed that the accident was the consequence of a loss of control caused by the failure of the rudder control system.

Details

The aircraft was on a supply mission and was approaching Nakhon Phanom Airport when it went out of control. The crash occurred in a wooded area in proximity to the airport. Search and rescue operations resulted in the extraction of eight survivors from the wreckage. The specific type of aircraft, its registration, and other operational details were not disclosed in the official source.

Conclusion

The investigation concluded with a finding of rudder control system failure leading to loss of control. No further causal factors were identified in the official report.