Aircraft crash near Sam Neua Airport

8 fatalities • Sam Neua, Laos • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Sam Neua Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities.

What happened

During the approach phase to Sam Neua Airport, the flight encountered challenging meteorological conditions characterized by low visibility. As the crew attempted to descend through cloud cover, the aircraft impacted a mountain slope situated approximately 12 km from the destination airport.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the encounter with poor weather conditions and limited visibility during the descent.
  • The impact occurred while the aircraft was operating within clouds.
  • The accident resulted in eight fatalities and nine injuries among the occupants on board.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain while flying through clouds and low-visibility conditions during its descent to the airport.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-10-19 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident near Sam Neua, Laos?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Sam Neua Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2000-10-19 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-10-19 involved a Harbin Yunsunji Y-12, registration RDPL-34130, operated by Lao Aviation, at Sam Neua, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain while flying through clouds and low-visibility conditions during its descent to the airport.

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