Aircraft excursion following downdraft after takeoff

No fatalities • Sam Neua, Laos • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft veered off the runway and struck a roadside fence after encountering sudden wind changes during its initial climb.

What happened

Shortly after departing the runway, a twin engine aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude while climbing to an elevation of approximately two meters. During this phase of flight, the aircraft encountered a significant downdraft. This atmospheric disturbance caused the plane to strike the runway surface, leading to a loss of directional control.

Following the impact with the runway, the aircraft veered off the paved surface and collided with a fence. The momentum of the aircraft carried it to a road situated 17 meters below the airfield level, where it eventually came to a stop. Despite the impact and the subsequent excursion, all 15 occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft without injury.

Findings

Investigation into the incident indicates that while wind speeds were initially recorded at 8 knots, the weather conditions shifted abruptly. The primary factor in the accident was a rapidly increasing wind strength and the occurrence of a downdraft immediately following rotation. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Probable cause

A sudden downdraft and rapid increase in wind strength caused the aircraft to strike the runway and veer off course during its initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-02-14 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident near Sam Neua, Laos?

A twin-engine aircraft veered off the runway and struck a roadside fence after encountering sudden wind changes during its initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-02-14 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-02-14 involved a Harbin Yunsunji Y-12, registration RDPL-34118, operated by Lao Aviation, at Sam Neua, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden downdraft and rapid increase in wind strength caused the aircraft to strike the runway and veer off course during its initial climb.

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