What happened
During a logistics operation intended to deliver artillery pieces to French Army forces at Điện Biên Phủ, a transport aircraft was targeted by ground fire. The engagement resulted in the loss of one of the aircraft's engines. Following the damage, the crew attempted an emergency return to Hải Phòng-Catbi Airport.
As the flight progressed, the aircraft was unable to maintain sufficient altitude. The descent continued until the plane impacted a ridge. The accident resulted in 2 fatalities, as both members of the crew perished in the crash.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by enemy fire during its mission flight phase.