Fatal aircraft crash near Phônsavan Airport

18 fatalities • Phônsavan, Laos • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into wooded terrain during its approach to Phônsavan Airport, resulting in the deaths of all 18 people on board.

What happened

During an approach to Phônsavan Airport, the flight crew encountered heavy fog that reduced visibility to levels below established minimums. As the aircraft was descending, it struck trees in a hilly, heavily forested area situated approximately 28 km from the destination airport. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames upon hitting the ground.

Findings

  • The descent occurred during a period of poor weather conditions caused by fog.
  • The pilot did not maintain a safe altitude, leading to the collision with obstacles.
  • The crash resulted in 18 fatalities with no survivors among the occupants.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain proper altitude during an approach in low-visibility fog conditions.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-12-13 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident near Phônsavan, Laos?

An aircraft crashed into wooded terrain during its approach to Phônsavan Airport, resulting in the deaths of all 18 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1993-12-13 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 18 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-12-13 involved a Harbin Yunsunji Y-12, registration RDPL-34117, operated by Lao Aviation, at Phônsavan, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain proper altitude during an approach in low-visibility fog conditions.

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