Single-engine aircraft crash following ground fire incident

No fatalities • Sam Neua, Laos • Flight

A charter flight involving a single-engine airplane ended in a crash after the aircraft was struck by ground fire during low-altitude flight.

What happened

During a recent charter operation, a single-engine airplane was performing maneuvers at a low altitude when it was struck by projectiles from ground-based fire. Following the impact from the ground fire, the pilot attempted to execute an emergency landing to stabilize the aircraft.

During this descent, the plane collided with trees and crashed within a heavily wooded region. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Reports indicate that all seven occupants on board were captured following the crash event.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor leading to the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by ground fire while operating at a low height.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by weapons fire from the ground during low-altitude flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-05-07 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Sam Neua, Laos?

A charter flight involving a single-engine airplane ended in a crash after the aircraft was struck by ground fire during low-altitude flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-05-07 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-05-07 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration XW-PFR, operated by Continental Air Services, at Sam Neua, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck by weapons fire from the ground during low-altitude flight.

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