Heartbreaking: 12 People Killed In Small Plane Crash In Hanoi…..See More

Heartbreaking Tragedy: 12 People Killed in Small Plane Crash Near Hanoi

HANOI, Vietnam (May 21, 2025) – In a devastating incident that has shocked the nation, a small passenger aircraft crashed just outside of Hanoi on Tuesday morning, killing all 12 people on board. The crash occurred around 9:40 AM local time in a rural area of Soc Son district, approximately 25 kilometers north of the capital city.

According to preliminary reports from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the aircraft—a twin-engine turboprop believed to be operated by a private charter company—was en route from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport to Dien Bien Province in northwestern Vietnam. The plane lost contact with air traffic control shortly after takeoff, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation.

Emergency responders, including firefighters, medical personnel, and military forces, arrived at the crash site within an hour. However, local authorities confirmed by midday that there were no survivors. Among the victims were two pilots, one flight attendant, and nine passengers, including a family of four believed to be traveling on vacation.

Witnesses in a nearby village reported hearing a loud explosion followed by thick black smoke rising from a wooded area. “We heard a terrible sound, like something breaking through the sky,” said Nguyen Van Hung, a local farmer. “Then we saw flames and rushed toward the area, but the wreckage was already burning fiercely.”

Officials have sealed off the area to allow aviation investigators to examine the wreckage. The cause of the crash remains unknown, but authorities have stated that weather conditions were stable at the time of departure. A full investigation is underway, involving the CAAV, the Ministry of Transport, and representatives from the aircraft manufacturer.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the victims. “This is a painful day for our country. We mourn with the families and pledge to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking loss,” he said.

The identities of the victims are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Grief counselors and support teams have been dispatched to assist the families affected.

This incident marks one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Vietnam in recent years and has renewed discussions around the safety protocols of private charter services, which have grown in popularity among both tourists and business travelers.

As investigators begin their work and the nation grieves, the thoughts of millions are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy.