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Encyclopedia > Da Nang Air Base
Đà Nẵng International Airport
IATA: DAD - ICAO: VVDN
Summary
Airport type Civil/Military (Joint Use)
Operator Middle Airport Authority
Serves Da Nang
Elevation AMSL 33 ft (10 m)
Coordinates 16°02′38″N, 108°11′58″E
Runways
Direction Length Surface
ft m
17L/35R 10,000 3,048 Asphalt
17R/35L 10,000 3,048 Asphalt

Đà Nẵng International Airport (IATA: DAD, ICAO: VVDN) is located in Da Nang of central Vietnam. It is the third international airport in the country, besides Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City). It is an important gateway to access central Vietnam. Image File history File links Download high resolution version (1200x812, 401 KB)Danang International Airport aerial view. ... An IATA airport code, also known an IATA location identifier or simply a location identifier [1], is a three-letter alphabetic code designating many airports around the world. ... The ICAO airport code (IPA pronunciation: ) is a four-letter alphanumeric code designating each airport around the world. ... Da Nang (occasionally Danang; in Vietnamese: Quốc Ngữ Đà Nẵng, Chữ Nôm 沱囊/沱曩, Chinese: 峴港) is a major port city in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, on the coast of the South China Sea. ... The term above mean sea level (AMSL) refers to the elevation (on the ground) or altitude (in the air) of any object, relative to the average sea level. ... A foot (plural: feet) is any of several old units of distance or length, measuring around a quarter to a third of a meter. ... metre or meter, see meter (disambiguation) The metre (in the U.S., chiefly meter) is a measure of length, approximately equal to 3. ... Map of Earth showing lines of latitude (horizontally) and longitude (vertically), Eckert VI projection; large version (pdf, 1. ... The examples and perspective in this article or section may not represent a worldwide view. ... The examples and perspective in this article or section may not represent a worldwide view. ... An IATA airport code, also known an IATA location identifier or simply a location identifier [1], is a three-letter alphabetic code designating many airports around the world. ... The ICAO airport code (IPA pronunciation: ) is a four-letter alphanumeric code designating each airport around the world. ... Da Nang (occasionally Danang; in Vietnamese: Quốc Ngữ Đà Nẵng, Chữ Nôm 沱囊/沱曩, Chinese: 峴港) is a major port city in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, on the coast of the South China Sea. ... Ná»™i Bài International Airport (IATA: HAN, ICAO: VVNB), the biggest airport in northern Vietnam, serves the capital city of Hanoi. ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Ná»™i; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ... Tân SÆ¡n Nhất International Airport (IATA: SGN, ICAO: VVTS), Vietnams largest international airport, serves Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam. ... Saigon redirects here. ...


In addition to its civil aviation, the runway is shared with the Vietnamese Air Force (Khong Quan Nhan Dan Viet Nam). During the Vietnam War Da Nang Air Base was a major United States Air Force (USAF) and South Vietnamese Air Force (SNVAF} facility. To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ... Combatants Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) United States of America South Korea Thailand Australia New Zealand the Philippines Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam) National Liberation Front (Viet Cong) Strength ~1,200,000 (1968) ~420,000 (1968) Casualties South Vietnamese dead: 230,000 South Vietnamese wounded: 300,000 US dead... The United States Air Force (or USAF) is the aerospace branch of the United States armed forces and one of the seven uniformed services. ...

Contents


Operating Airlines

Pacific Airlines is an airline based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Nội; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ... Saigon redirects here. ... PB Air is a regional airline based in Bangkok, Thailand. ... The Bangkok Skytrain at sunset on Thanon Narathiwat Ratcha Nakharin with Empire Tower at the back. ... Silkair is a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines and is based in Singapore. ... Tiger Airways Private Limited is a low-cost airline based in Singapore. ... Please wikify (format) this article or section as suggested in the Guide to layout and the Manual of Style. ... Buon Ma Thuot is a capital city of Dak Lak Province, Vietnam. ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Nội; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ... Saigon redirects here. ... This article contains information that has not been verified and thus might not be reliable. ... Pleiku is a town in central Vietnam seated in the central highland region. ... Qui Nhon is a coastal city in the centre of Vietnam. ...

Destinations

Most domestic routes are monopolized by the national flag-carrier Vietnam Airlines. Pacific Airlines, the second largest airline in Vietnam, has daily flights from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The Bangkok Skytrain at sunset on Thanon Narathiwat Ratcha Nakharin with Empire Tower at the back. ... Bangkok International Airport (or also Don Muang International Airport) (Thai ท่าอากาศยานกรุงเทพ, also Don Mueang, Thai ท่าอากาศยานดอนเมือง) is an airport in Bangkok, Thailand (, ). The airport was officially opened on March 27th 1914, although the field had been in use earlier. ... PB Air is a regional airline based in Bangkok, Thailand. ... For other uses, see Moscow (disambiguation). ... Domodedovo International Airport (Russian: Домоде́дово) (IATA: DME, ICAO: UUDD) is an airport 35 km (22 miles) south of Moscow, Russia (, ). Moscow has several airports, of which the most prominent are Sheremetyevo International Airport and Domodedovo. ... Thai Airways International (Thai: การบินไทย) is the national air carrier of Thailand. ... PB Air is a regional airline based in Bangkok, Thailand. ... The Bangkok Skytrain at sunset on Thanon Narathiwat Ratcha Nakharin with Empire Tower at the back. ... Singapore Changi International Airport (Chinese: 新加坡樟宜机场; Pinyin: XÄ«njiāpō Zhāngyí JÄ«chÇŽng; Malay: Lapangan Terbang Changi Singapura; Tamil: சிங்கப்பூர் சாங்கி விமானநிலையம்) or simply Changi Airport (IATA: SIN, ICAO: WSSS) is a major aviation hub in Asia. ... Silkair is a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines and is based in Singapore. ... Tiger Airways Private Limited is a low-cost airline based in Singapore. ... January 10 is the 10th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Buon Ma Thuot is a capital city of Dak Lak Province, Vietnam. ... Category: Airports in Vietnam ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Ná»™i; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ... Ná»™i Bài International Airport (IATA: HAN, ICAO: VVNB), the biggest airport in northern Vietnam, serves the capital city of Hanoi. ... Saigon redirects here. ... Tân SÆ¡n Nhất International Airport (IATA: SGN, ICAO: VVTS), Vietnams largest international airport, serves Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam. ... This article contains information that has not been verified and thus might not be reliable. ... History Cam Ranh Airport was built by US Army during Vietnam War. ... Pleiku is a town in central Vietnam seated in the central highland region. ... Category: Airports in Vietnam ... Qui Nhon is a coastal city in the centre of Vietnam. ... Vietnam Airlines is serving Phu Cat Airport with flights from Danang (Danang International Airport, DAD) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport, SGN). ... Please wikify (format) this article or section as suggested in the Guide to layout and the Manual of Style. ... Pacific Airlines is an airline based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. ... Da Nang (occasionally Danang; in Vietnamese: Quốc Ngữ Đà Nẵng, Chữ Nôm 沱囊/沱曩, Chinese: 峴港) is a major port city in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, on the coast of the South China Sea. ... Saigon redirects here. ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Ná»™i; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ...


Tiger Airways plans to train pilots, technicians and crew members in Danang, not only for the Da Nang-Singapore route but also for other direct links between Da Nang and various destinations in Southeast Asia. Tiger Airways Private Limited is a low-cost airline based in Singapore. ... Location of Southeast Asia Southeast Asia is a subregion of Asia. ...


Facilities

The airport has two runways, one 10,000 ft (3,045m) paved runway. The airport has a modern aviation equipment system to handle large aircraft.


Traffic volume at Da Nang averages 100 to 150 flights every 24 hours. Annual traffic is between 800,000 and 1,000,000 passengers. In 2000 the estimated number of passengers was 1.5 million and will grow to 4 million by 2020. This article is about the year 2000. ... 2020 (MMXX) will be a leap year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ...


News

November 4 is the 308th day of the year (309th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 57 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Pacific Airlines is an airline based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. ... Da Nang (occasionally Danang; in Vietnamese: Quốc Ngữ Đà Nẵng, Chữ Nôm 沱囊/沱曩, Chinese: 峴港) is a major port city in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, on the coast of the South China Sea. ... Hanoi (Vietnamese: Hà Nội; Han tu: 河内), estimated population 3,083,800 (2004), is the capital of Vietnam and was the capital of North Vietnam from 1954 to 1976. ... Please wikify (format) this article or section as suggested in the Guide to layout and the Manual of Style. ...

History

B-26C Serial 44-34109 of the French Air Force - Over Indochina 1952. This aircraft was Returned to the USAF Oct 1955 and scrapped.
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B-26C Serial 44-34109 of the French Air Force - Over Indochina 1952. This aircraft was Returned to the USAF Oct 1955 and scrapped.

In 1953/54 the French laid a NATO-standard 7,800-foot asphalt runway at Toluene - later renamed Da Nang, however, there were no runway lights or maintenance buildings. The first aircraft stationed by the French Air Force at Toluene were loaned American B-26s "Invaders" of the Groupe de Bombardement 1/19 Gascogne. In 1954 after the Geneva Peace Accords, these B-26's were returned to the United States. The French Air Force is the air force branch of the French Armed Forces. ... See A-26 Invader for the plane known as the B-26 from 1948 to 1962. ... 1954 (MCMLIV) was a common year starting on Friday of the Gregorian calendar. ...


On 1 July 1955 the newly-independent South Vietnamese Air Force inherited a token force of fifty-eight aircraft. These included a few squadrons of Cessna L-19 observation aircraft, C-47 transports and various utility aircraft. Toluene Airfiled was turned over to civilian use, with the South Vietnamese using facilities at Bien Hoa, Nha Trang and at Tan Son Nhut, near Saigon. July 1 is the 182nd day of the year (183rd in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 183 days remaining. ... 1955 (MCMLV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...


In 1958 the South Vietnamese Air Force re-established a presence at Da Nang, stationing the 1st Liason Squadron with Cessna L-19s. The South Vietnamese Army (ARVN) also used Da Nang as a ranger training facility. 1958 (MCMLVIII) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was a military component of the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam (commonly known as South Vietnam). ...


USAF Use of Da Nang Air Base

Da Nang Air Base became a joint operating airfield when U.S. Forces started to arrive in the early 1960s. As the fighting between the North and South Vietnamese increased, the number of SVNAF units at Da Nang also increased, as did those of the USAF. and U.S Marine air units which swelled the capacity of the base beyond its limits. Covered and open aircraft revetments were constructed on concrete and asphalt parking aprons to protect the assigned aircraft from NVA mortar attacks.


In addition to these permanent assigned combat units, the airfield was a cargo facility for the huge C-141s. C-5s, and contract commercial flights of the Military Airlift Command, as well as a civil terminal for the various domestic airlines.


For the air war over North Vietnam. Da Nang was considered the most suitable diversionary airfield in case of emergency. Landings of this nature became commonplace for Thailand-based USAF fighter bombers. reconnaissance aircraft, strike aircraft from the Navy air-craft carriers stationed in the South China Sea. and damaged aircraft of all air units stationed throughout South Vietnam.


The USAF forces stationed there were under the command of the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). Emblem of the U.S. Air Forces Pacific The United States Pacific Air Forces (USPACAF or PACAF) is one of nine major U.S. Air Force commands and one of two located outside the continental United States, the other being U.S. Air Forces Europe. ...


The APO for Da Nang Air Base was APO San Francisco, 96337


Advisory Units

On 19 August 1961, President Kennedy approved a long-range radar facility to be sited near Da Nang to observe and report Soviet flights across the Laotian border. On 11 September 1961 the deployment of a mobile combat radar system begain from the 507th Tactical Control Group at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. August 19 is the 231st day of the year (232nd in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1961 (MCMLXI) was a common year starting on Sunday (the link is to a full 1961 calendar). ... JFK redirects here. ... September 11 is the 254th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (255th in leap years). ... 1961 (MCMLXI) was a common year starting on Sunday (the link is to a full 1961 calendar). ... F-16CJ Fighting Falcon taking off from Shaw AFB as part of enforcing the northern no fly zone in Iraq. ... Official language(s) English Capital Charleston(1760-1789) Columbia(1790-present) Largest city Columbia Largest metro area Greenville Area  Ranked 40th  - Total 34,726 sq mi (82,965 km²)  - Width 200 miles (320 km)  - Length 260 miles (420 km)  - % water 6  - Latitude 32°430N to 35°12N...


On 15 June 1962 personnel of project Mule Train arrived at Da Nang, operating two Fairchild C-123 Providers. These C-123s delivered supplies to distant outposts established by the Army Special Forces along the border with Laos, and to drop South Vietnamese parachute troops in operations against the Viet Cong. They were designated Tactical Air Force Transport Squadron Provisional-2. June 15 is the 166th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (167th in leap years), with 199 days remaining. ... 1962 (MCMLXII) was a common year starting on Monday (the link is to a full 1962 calendar). ... A United States Coast Guard HC-123B Provider The C-123 Provider, originally as an assault glider aircraft for the United States Air Force by Chase Aircraft, was developed into a powered transport aircraft by the Fairchild Company, and went on to serve most notably with US forces in South... A Viet Cong soldier, heavily guarded, awaits interrogation following capture in the attacks on Saigon during the festive Tet holiday period of 1968. ...


The success of project Farm Gate and the Vietnamese AD-6s at Bien Hoa Air Base led to an expansion of the mission. This success eventually moved the SVNAF 1st Fighter Squadron to stage two AD-6s at Da Nang, flown by American pilots durnig 1962. Air Photo of Bien Hoa Air Base - South Vietnam July 1968 Bien Hoa Air Base is a former South Vietnamese Air Force and United States Air Force base located in South-Central southern Vietnam about 20 miles (30 kilometers] from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) near the city of Bien...


During April 1963 the arrival of the 777th Troop Carrier Squadron with sixteen C-123s augmented the airlift of the twenty-nine C-123s at Tan Son Nhut Air Base to support the US Special Forces in Vietnam. For other uses, see April (disambiguation). ... 1963 (MCMLXIII) was a common year starting on Tuesday (the link is to a full 1963 calendar). ... The C-123 Provider was designed originally as an assault glider aircraft for the United States Air Force by Chase Aircraft. ... Tan Son Nhut Air Base is a former United States Air Force base. ...


By June Military Assistnce Command Vietnam (MACV) had 16,652 people, 4,790 of them Air Force. On the 28th, Secretary of Defense McNamara froze MACV strength. To clear up the confusing array of USAF units, PACAF formed new ones without expanding manpower authorizations. At Da Nang, the 23d Air Base Group was created to organize the USAF advisory units stationed there. The Mule Train C-123 unit became the 311th Troop Carrier Squadron. Look up June in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... The United States Secretary of Defense is the head of the United States Department of Defense, concerned with the armed services and The Secretary is a member of the Presidents Cabinet. ... Emblem of the U.S. Air Forces Pacific The United States Pacific Air Forces (USPACAF or PACAF) is one of nine major U.S. Air Force commands and one of two located outside the continental United States, the other being U.S. Air Forces Europe. ...


F-104 Starfighters


During 1964/65 the 23d Air Base Group supported various USAF deployed squadrons through mid-1965. During the early days of Operation Rolling Thunder in 1965, North Vietnamese fighter aircraft became a problem for attacking USAF and US Navy strike aircraft. In response, the 476th Tactical Fighter Squadron of the 479th Tactical Fighter Wing from George AFB, California began regular rotations to Da Nang in April 1965. Their job was to fly MiG combat air patrol (MiGCAP) missions to protect American fighter bombers against attack by North Vietnamese fighters.


The effect of F-104 deployment upon NVN and PRC MiG operations was immediate and dramatic--NVN MiGs soon learned to avoid contact with USAF strikes being covered by F-104s. During the entire deployment of the 476th only two fleeting encounters between F-104Cs and enemy fighters occurred.


The F-104s rotated back to George AFB in November 1965 and the F-4Cs of the 390th TFS assumed the 435th's escort mission at DaNang. Although the F-104s had not shot down a single MiG, their mere presence as escort aircraft had diminished MiG activity to the point where MiGs were no longer considered as a primary threat to USAF aircraft flying missions over North Vietnam.


6252d Tactical Wing

The 6252d Tactical Wing was activated at Da Nang on 18 July 1965, taking over from the 23d Air Base Group. The 6252d was responsible as the host unit and for operational squadrons assigned to Da Nang. Squadrons assigned were: July 18 is the 199th day (200th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 166 days remaining. ... 1965 (MCMLXV) was a common year starting on Friday (the link is to a full 1965 calendar). ...

  • 8th Bombardment Squadron 8 Jul 1965 - 8 Apr 1966 (B-57)
  • 13th Bombardment Squadron 16 Aug 1965 - 8 Apr 1966 (B-57)
  • 390th Tactical Fighter 29 Oct 1965 - 8 Apr 1966 (F-4C)

Note: 8/13th BS TDY from 405 Fighter Wing Clark AB Phillipines; 390th TFS TDY from 366th TFW Holloman AFB NM.


35th Tactical Fighter Wing

The 35th Tactical Fighter Wing was activated on 8 April 1966, replacing the 6252d TW. April 8 is the 98th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (99th in leap years). ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ...


Its attached squadrons were:

  • 8th Bombardment Squadron 8 Apr - 15 Aug 1966 (B-57)
  • 13th Bombardment Squadron 17 Apr - 10 Oct 1966 (B-57)
  • 390th Tactical Fighter 8 Apr - 10 Oct 1966 (F-4C)
  • 480th Tactical Fighter 8 Apr - 10 Oct 1966 (F-4C)
  • 64th Fighter-Interceptor 10 Jun - 10 Oct 1966 (F-102)

Note: 8/13th BS and 64th FIS TDY from 405 Fighter Wing Clark AB Phillipines; 390/480th TFS TDY from 366th TFW Holloman AFB NM.


On 1 October 1966 the 35th and 366th Wings moved in name only, the 35th Wing replacing the 366th Wing at Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam, and becoming an F-100 organization. The two B-57 squadrons also shifted bases, following the 35th Wing to Phan Rang. October 1 is the 274th day of the year (275th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ... Phan Rang Air Base is a former United States Air Force base. ...


366th Tactical Fighter Wing

The 366th Tactical Fighter Wing assumed the host unit function at Da Nang transfering from Phan Rang Air Base South Vietnam on 10 October 1966. The wing moved "on paper" to Da Nang AB, South Vietnam, giving the 366th new personnel, equipment, and facilities. Image File history File links Ch-366tfw. ... Phan Rang Air Base is a former United States Air Force base. ... Official language Vietnamese Capital Saigon Last President Duong Van Minh Last Prime Minister Vu Van Mau Area  - Total  - % water 173,809 km² N/A Population  - Total  - Density 19,370,000 (1973 est. ... October 10 is the 283rd day of the year (284th in Leap years). ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ...


Its attached squadrons were:

F-102s of the 64th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron - 1966.
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F-102s of the 64th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron - 1966.
F-4E of the 421st Tactical Fighter Squadron
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F-4E of the 421st Tactical Fighter Squadron
  • 389th Tactical Fighter 10 Oct 1966 – 15 Jun 1969 (F-4C/D)

Notes: Two small red one white stripe on rudder as squadron marking. Tail Codes F-4C: AA, AD, AG, AH, AS, AT, AW, AX, AY. F-4D: AD, AW. Also used AB AK AJ AU AY, (HB 1969 - 71)

  • 390th Tactical Fighter 10 Oct 1966 – 30 Jun 1972 (F-4C/D)

Notes: Blue stripe on rudder as squadron marking. Tail Codes F-4C: BT, BY. F-4D: BN BQ. Also used BD BF BL BY, (LF 1969 - 71).

  • 480th Tactical Fighter 10 Oct 1966 – 15 Apr 1969 (F-4C/D)

Notes: Green stripe on rudder as squadron marking. Tail Codes F-4C: CH CW CY. F-4D: CM CO CS CW CY. Also used CV (HK 1969 - 71).

  • 4th Tactical Fighter 12 Apr 1969 – 31 Oct 1972 (F-4E Tail Code: LA)
  • 421st Tactical Fighter 16 Apr 1969 – 31 May 1972 (F-4E Tail Code: LC)

Note: TDY from 33d TFW Eglin AFB, Florida

  • 35th Tactical Fighter attached 3 Apr – 12 Jun 1972 (F-4D Tail Code: UP)

Note: TDY from 3d TFW Kusan AB, South Korea

  • 20th Tactical Air Support 15 Mar – 27 Jun 1972 (O-2A, OV-10)
  • 362d Tactical Electronic Warfare 1 Feb – 27 Jun 1972 (EC–47N/P/Q aircraft)

Operational sorties by the 366th TFW involved flying cover for F-105 Thunderchief strike aircraft, offering numerous opportunities for aerial combat with North Vietnamese MiG aircraft. 366th TFW pilots scored 18 aerial victories in Southeast Asia. The Republic F-105 Thunderchief, commonly known as the Thud by its crews, was a single-seat supersonic fighter-bomber used by the United States Air Force. ...


In 1972, gained the 362d TEWS, equipped with EC–47N/P/Q aircraft, and 20th TASS, flying O–2A and OV–10A aircraft. The former was assigned an electronic countermeasures mission; the latter carried out a forward air control mission. 1972 (MCMLXXII) was a leap year starting on Saturday. ...


The 366th was transferred to Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base on 26 June 1972. June 26 is the 177th day of the year (178th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 188 days remaining. ... 1972 (MCMLXXII) was a leap year starting on Saturday. ...


20th Tactical Air Support Squadron

On 8 May 1965 the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron (TASS) was activated as part of the 505th Tactical Control Group. On 8 September 1966 the unit was assigned to the 6250th Tactical Air Support Group (Provisional then on 8 December 1966 the squadron became part of the 504th Tactical Air Support Group headquartered at Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon. May 8 is the 128th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (129th in leap years). ... 1965 (MCMLXV) was a common year starting on Friday (the link is to a full 1965 calendar). ... September 8 is the 251st day of the year (252nd in leap years). ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ... December 8 is the 342nd day (343rd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ... Tan Son Nhut Air Base is a former United States Air Force base. ... Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnamese: Thành Chí Minh) is the largest city in Vietnam, located near the delta of the Mekong River. ...

USAF Cessna O-1 (L-19) "Bird Dog"
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USAF Cessna O-1 (L-19) "Bird Dog"

The squadron was authorized thirty Cessna 0-1 Birddog aircraft, however this allocation proved difficult to fill, since the aircraft were being transferred from other agencies, primarily the Army. The Cessna L-19 Bird Dog is a military version of the Cessna 170 used by the United States Air Force, Army and Marines. ...


Four months before its organization, the Air Force had 20 aircraft required by the TASSs in Vietnam. The TASS’s growth was dependent on and linked to the acquisition of the 0-1s from other agencies. While TASS operations were initiated in August 1965, it wasn’t until the end of the year that the 20th TASS received its full complement of aircraft. August is the eighth month of the year in the Gregorian Calendar and one of seven Gregorian months with the length of 31 days. ... 1965 (MCMLXV) was a common year starting on Friday (the link is to a full 1965 calendar). ...


As the Forward Air Controller (FAC) pilots began to arrive, they were provided with familiarization checkouts and theater indoctrination flights. Upon completion of these requirements, FACs were assigned to support US and Vietnamese Army units. During this period, FACs were given many and varied tactical call signs.


In the latter part of 1965, the 20th TASS was assigned the out-of-country mission, which entailed flying interdiction missions over the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos. Its area of operations (AO) was designated TIGERHOUND. To meet its mission requirements it was necessary to establish a number of forward operating bases (FOB) to support the operation. Initially, FOBs were established at Khe Sanh, Kham Duc, and Kontum. Eventually, the sites were expanded to include Danang, Dong Ha, Dak To, and Pleiku. The Ho Chi Minh Trailwas a network of routes from North Vietnam to South Vietnam in the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia to provide logistical support to the Viet Cong and the North Vietnamese Army during the Vietnam War. ...


In mid-July 1966, the 20th TASS was assigned another mission and AO. The new mission was designed TALLY HO. The AO was part of the STEEL TIGER area located in North Vietnam from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to about 30 miles north of the DMZ. The TALLY HO missions were flown from Dong Ha. During this period, it was decided that all out-of-country tactical call signs would carry the name of COVEY. Look up July in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ... The Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRVN), or less commonly, Vietnamese Democratic Republic (Vietnamese: Việt Nam Dân Chủ Cộng Hòa), also known as North Vietnam, was proclaimed by Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi, September 2nd1945 and was recognized by the Peoples Republic of China and the...


The 0-1, whether by design or accident proved to be an outstanding FAC aircraft. It provided exceptional visibility, was not complicated, and was surprisingly easy to fly. However, as the weapons of the Viet Cong and the North Vietnamese regulars became more sophisticated, the 0-1’s vulnerability was accentuated. This vulnerability was countered by a new FAC aircraft.

An O-2 Skymaster dropping leaflets over Vietnam
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An O-2 Skymaster dropping leaflets over Vietnam
OV-10 Bronco aircraft firing a white phosphorus smoke rocket to mark a ground target.
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OV-10 Bronco aircraft firing a white phosphorus smoke rocket to mark a ground target.

The new FAC aircraft was the Cessna O-2 Skymaster which was a modified Cessna 337. It was an inline dual engine aircraft with one propeller pushing and the other pulling. From late 1966 until late 1968, approximately 350 0-2s were contracted for by the Air Force. The first 0-2s, to arrive in country were assigned to the 20th TASS. They were then assigned to Dong Ha and Khe Sanh to provide a more substantial FAC aircraft to deal with the improvements in the enemy’s weaponry. By reading some of the narratives submitted by 0-2 pilots, the reader will become acutely aware of the 0-2’s capabilities and limitations. The O-2 Skymaster, public domain image from af. ... The O-2 Skymaster, public domain image from af. ... This article is about the chemical element. ... The O-2 Skymaster is a military version of the Cessna 337 Super Skymaster. ... 1966 (MCMLXVI) was a common year starting on Saturday (the link is to a full 1966 calendar). ... 1968 (MCMLXVIII) was a leap year starting on Monday (the link is to a full 1968 calendar). ...


The 0-2 was an interim aircraft, but it filled a void while the OV-10 Bronco was being developed. The 0V-10 was a more sophisticated and durable FAC vehicle: it had greater ordinance carrying capability, more loiter time, a bit more power, and a greater array of conventional navigation aids and in-flight instrumentation. The 20th TASS received its first 0V-10s in July 1969. The arrival of the 0V-10s to complement the O-2As resulted in the transfer of the 0-1s to other units. An OV-10 as displayed in Hurlburt Field Air Park. ... Look up July in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... 1969 (MCMLXIX) was a common year starting on Wednesday (the link is to a full 1969 calendar). ...


By October 1969, the 20th TASS, while supporting five US Army and six South Vietnam force locations, as well as the out-of-country operations, was operating from Danang and eleven FOBs. As the US Army began to gradually reduce its presence in 1972 and 1973, the 20th TASS began withdrawing from its FOBs. Look up October in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... 1969 (MCMLXIX) was a common year starting on Wednesday (the link is to a full 1969 calendar). ... 1972 (MCMLXXII) was a leap year starting on Saturday. ... 1973 (MCMLXXIII) was a common year starting on Monday. ...


In response to the North Vietnamese spring offensive of 1972, the 20 TASS reestablished some of its former FOBs. It is notable to mention that in June 1972, the 20th TASS had tripled its pre-invasion sorties. Further, Covey FACs from Danang using 0V-10s were a vital and integral part of base defense operations during that year. Look up June in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... 1972 (MCMLXXII) was a leap year starting on Saturday. ...


In January 1973, the 20th TASS ceased operations at its last FOB, and flew its final missions in Vietnam. The 0-2s were turned over to the Vietnamese Air Force, and the 0V-10s were assigned to other USAF units in Southeast Asia. 1973 (MCMLXXIII) was a common year starting on Monday. ...


On 25 January 1973 the 20th TASS moved, without personnel or equipment, to George AFB, California. January 25 is the 25th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1973 (MCMLXXIII) was a common year starting on Monday. ...


Other Units At Da Nang

The 6th Air Commando/Special Operations Squradron based at Pleiku Air Base maintained a detachment of Douglas A-1EH "Skyraiders" at Da Nang from 1 April 1968 - 1 September 1969. The unit flew combat missions, including air support for ground forces, air cover for transports, day and night interdiction, combat search and rescue support, armed reconnaissance, and forward air control. April 1 is the 91st day of the year (92nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 274 days remaining. ... 1968 (MCMLXVIII) was a leap year starting on Monday (the link is to a full 1968 calendar). ... September 1 is the 244th day of the year (245th in leap years). ... 1969 (MCMLXIX) was a common year starting on Wednesday (the link is to a full 1969 calendar). ...


United States Marine Corps: III Marine Amphibious Force; 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, 1st Marine Division; 7th Marine Regiment; 27th Marine Regiment; United States Marine Corps seal The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is a branch of the U.S. military, which along with the U.S. Navy, is under the United States Department of the Navy. ... Official force name First Marine Aircraft Wing Other names 1 MAW The Wing Branch United States Marine Corps Chain of Command III MEF Description Combat ready expeditionary aviation forces. ... The 1st Marine Division is the oldest, largest (active duty), and most decorated division-sized unit in the United States Marine Corps representing a combat-ready force of more than 19,000 men and women. ... Official force name 7th Marine Regiment Other names 7th Marines Motto No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy. ...


United States Navy: 3rd Naval Mobile Construction Brigade; Naval Support Activity. The United States Navy (USN) is the branch of the United States armed forces responsible for conducting naval operations. ...

Image File history File links Flag_of_South_Vietnam. ...

Known SVNAF Units At Da Nang (June 1974 Table Of Organization)

A-37Bs of the South Vietnamese Air Force 516th Fighter Squadron
Enlarge
A-37Bs of the South Vietnamese Air Force 516th Fighter Squadron

Da Nang Air Base was the headquarters of the SVNAF 1st Air Division.


41st Tactical Wing

  • 110th/120th Liason Squadron Cessna O-1A, O-2, U-17
  • 427th Transport Squadron C-7B
  • 718th Reconnaissance Squadron EC-47
  • 821st Attack Squadron AC-119K

51st Tactical Wing

  • 213th/233d/239th/253d/257th Helicopter Squadron Bell UH-1H
  • 247th Helicopter Squadron CH-47A

61st Tactical Wing

  • 516th/528th/550th Fighter Squadron A-37B
  • 538th Fighter Squadron F-5A/B/E

Capture Of Da Nang Air Base

With the capture of Ban Me Thuot and the Central Highlands by North Vietnamese forces in late March 1975, the diasterous retreat by the ARVN had a profound effect on the South Vietnamese troops and civilians around Hue, Quang Tri, and Da Nang. ... March is the third month of the year in the Gregorian Calendar and one of seven Gregorian months with the length of 31 days. ... 1975 (MCMLXXV) was a common year starting on Wednesday. ... An image with the hue altered The hue of this Painted Bunting is adjusted over the spectrum. ... Quang Tri Province is a region and province in central Vietnam near (north) the ancient capital of Huế. ... Da Nang (occasionally Danang; in Vietnamese: Quốc Ngữ Đà Nẵng, Chữ Nôm 沱囊/沱曩, Chinese: 峴港) is a major port city in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, on the coast of the South China Sea. ...


Conflicting orders from Saigon caused confusion, lowered morale, and led to troop movements which defied any logic. As rockets and artillery lire began to hit Da Nang Air Base on 28 March, the 1st Air Division was ordered to evacuate. Those ARVN soldiers who did not desert to assist their fleeing families, but instead chose to stand and fight, were overrun. Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnamese: Thành Chí Minh) is the largest city in Vietnam, located near the delta of the Mekong River. ... March 28 is the 87th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (88th in leap years). ...


The troops who somehow managed to escape capture then joined the crazed mob attempting to leave Da Nang on anything that floated. Chaos ruled the streets of Da Nang Easter weekend 1975 as military deserters armed with their combat weapons attempted to dictate the terms of their departure. Before the weekend ended some of the most disciplined members of the armed forces would use their weapons against their countrymen in order to gain passage from Da Nang.


Approximately 130 aircraft managed to evacuate but over 180 were left behind along with huge stocks of fuel and ordinance. Abandoned were thirty-three A-37s, most of which were captured intact by the NVA.


By 30 March one of the largest cities in South Vietnam and its huge air field were under communist control. Coming so soon after the loss of Kontum and Pleiku, the fall of Da Nang caused widespread panic and desertion within the South Vietnamese armed forces. The North Vietnamese, sensing that victory was theirs, deployed their reserves and immediately began pushing south along the coast in what was known as the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, the final push toward Saigon. March 30 is the 89th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (90th in leap years). ... Official language Vietnamese Capital Saigon Last President Duong Van Minh Last Prime Minister Vu Van Mau Area  - Total  - % water 173,809 km² N/A Population  - Total  - Density 19,370,000 (1973 est. ... Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnamese: Thành Chí Minh) is the largest city in Vietnam, located near the delta of the Mekong River. ...


See also

Nội Bài International Airport (IATA: HAN, ICAO: VVNB), the biggest airport in northern Vietnam, serves the capital city of Hanoi. ... Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (IATA: SGN, ICAO: VVTS), Vietnams largest international airport, serves Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam. ... // Civil Airports International Airport Danang International Airport (Danang), (DAD/VVDN) Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), (HAN/VVNB) Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), (SGN/VVTS) Domestic Airports Buon Ma Thuot Airport (Buon Ma Thuot), (BMV/VVBM) Ca Mau Airport (Ca Mau), (CAH/VVCM) Cam Ly Airport (Da... Map Of Major USAF bases in South Vietnam Overview What started as a small U.S. assistance program to train the South Vietnamese to protect themselves grew into a massive military and naval effort by the US with four major areas of combat operations. ...

References

  • Martin, Patrick, Tail Code: The Complete History Of USAF Tactical Aircraft Tail Code Markings, 1994
  • Mesko, Jim, VNAF: South Vietnamese Air Force, 1945-1975, 1978
  • Ravenstein, Charles A., Air Force Combat Wings: Linege and Honors Histories 1947-1977. Office OF Air Force History, United States Air Force, 1984
  • Endicott, Judy G., USAF Active Flying, Space, and Missile Squadrons as of 1 October 1995. Office of Air Force History
  • USAF Historical Reserach Division/Organizational History Branch - 35th Fighter Wing, 366th Wing

External links

  • World Aero Data on this airport (VVDN)
  • Infrastructure in Danang

 

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