What happened
During the takeoff phase from Khe Sanh Airstrip, an aircraft was struck by an artillery shell while performing its initial climb. Following the impact, the pilot attempted an emergency landing at the same airfield.
Upon reaching the ground, the aircraft became uncontrollable. The plane veered off the runway and subsequently caught fire. Although the aircraft was completely destroyed in the incident, all 10 occupants managed to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the primary cause of the accident was the impact from enemy fire during the ascent.