What happened
A cargo mission transporting fuel drums and various equipment was underway from Đà Nẵng toward Khe Sanh when the aircraft encountered enemy fire. During the approach phase, the plane was hit by artillery, which triggered an explosion in the third engine. Despite the damage, the pilot-in-command maintained the descent and successfully touched down on the runway. However, upon landing, a secondary explosion occurred as the onboard jet fuel ignited. This subsequent blast caused the aircraft to be consumed by flames, resulting in its total destruction.
Findings
- The primary damage was caused by an artillery strike during the approach.
- The post-landing fire and subsequent destruction of the airframe were triggered by the ignition of the jet fuel being transported as cargo.
- The accident resulted in eight fatalities (comprising five passengers and three crew members) and three injuries.