Fatal mountain collision near Sam Neua

12 fatalities • Sam Neua, Laos • Flight

An aircraft traveling from Vientiane crashed into a mountainside in the Sam Neua region, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During a flight originating in Vientiane and destined for Sam Neua, the crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions. While navigating through the area near Sam Neua, the aircraft collided with a mountain slope. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the plane.

There were 12 fatalities recorded following the accident, as all occupants on board perished in the crash.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the crew was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite the presence of unfavorable weather. The primary factor in the crash was that the crew continued flight into worsening weather conditions instead of opting to return to their previous location.

Probable cause

The crew attempted to fly under visual flight rules into deteriorating weather and did not divert when visibility decreased.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-01-16 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Sam Neua, Laos?

An aircraft traveling from Vientiane crashed into a mountainside in the Sam Neua region, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-01-16 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-01-16 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-70417, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Sam Neua, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew attempted to fly under visual flight rules into deteriorating weather and did not divert when visibility decreased.

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