Aircraft excursion and collision at Khe Sanh Airport

1 fatality • Khe Sanh, Vietnam • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Khe Sanh Airport, resulting in a collision with ground vehicles and a fatal injury.

What happened

Following its arrival at Khe Santh Airport, the aircraft experienced a loss of directional control. During the landing phase, the plane drifted to the left side of the runway, eventually exiting the paved surface. The excursion resulted in a collision with multiple trucks parked near the runway area. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire.

There were eight people on board during the incident. While all occupants sustained injuries during the crash and subsequent fire, one passenger succumbed to their wounds several days after the event.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary reason for the loss of control was a mechanical failure. Specifically, the failure of the pitch control system on engines number three and four prevented the crew from maintaining proper flight path stability during the landing sequence.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control due to a malfunction in the pitch control system affecting the third and fourth engines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-04-13 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Khe Sanh, Vietnam?

An aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Khe Sanh Airport, resulting in a collision with ground vehicles and a fatal injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-04-13 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-04-13 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 61-0967, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Khe Sanh, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control due to a malfunction in the pitch control system affecting the third and fourth engines.

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