Aircraft crash near Katum Special Forces Camp

6 fatalities • Katum, Vietnam • Landing (descent or approach)

A military aircraft crashed during its final approach to the Katum Special Forces Camp following an engagement with anti-aircraft weaponry.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight toward the Katum Special Forces Camp, an aircraft was struck by ground fire at an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet. The impact originated from a quad .50 calibre radar-directed anti-aircraft gun targeting the port wing of the plane. This strike resulted in both an engine failure and the onset of an onboard fire.

Following the hit, the aircraft lost stability and entered an uncontrolled descent. The plane struck the ground a few kilometers before reaching the runway. There were no survivors of the accident, as all six crew members perished in the crash.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by enemy fire during its approach to the landing site.

Probable cause

The aircraft was downed by anti-aircraft artillery fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-06-23 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Katum, Vietnam?

A military aircraft crashed during its final approach to the Katum Special Forces Camp following an engagement with anti-aircraft weaponry.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-06-23 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-06-23 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 61-0965, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Katum, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was downed by anti-aircraft artillery fire.

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