Aircraft loss during supply mission over dense woodland

2 fatalities • Ban Karai Pass, Laos • Flight

An aircraft engaged in a sensor-dropping mission was struck by enemy fire, resulting in the deaths of both pilots.

What happened

During a specialized supply mission involving the deployment of sensors, an aircraft departed from Nakhon Phanom Airport. While operating at a low altitude, the plane was hit by hostile ground fire. In the moments following the impact, seven individuals on board successfully exited the aircraft via parachute.

The aircraft subsequently crashed into a heavily forested region, where it caught fire upon impact. Although seven passengers were rescued five hours after the incident, the two pilots did not survive the crash. The total number of fatalities was 2, while the 7 survivors were later evacuated from the site.

Findings

Investigations into the loss of the aircraft concluded that the primary reason for the destruction was that the plane was struck by enemy fire during its low-altitude flight path.

Probable cause

The aircraft was downed by hostile ground fire while performing a sensor-dropping mission.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-02-27 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident near Ban Karai Pass, Laos?

An aircraft engaged in a sensor-dropping mission was struck by enemy fire, resulting in the deaths of both pilots.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-02-27 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-02-27 involved a Lockheed P-2 Neptune, registration 131484, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Ban Karai Pass, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was downed by hostile ground fire while performing a sensor-dropping mission.

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