Vietnam Airlines Flight 815 was a domestic service operated by a Tupolev Tu-134 aircraft, which encountered a fatal accident on its approach to Phnom Penh International Airport. The flight, originating from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, was carrying both passengers and crew when it ran into adverse meteorological conditions during its final descent. Reports indicated that the aircraft experienced low visibility due to heavy rain and potentially inadequate navigational aid at the airport. As it approached for landing, the aircraft crashed, resulting in a catastrophic event claiming 64 lives.

As investigators pieced together the circumstances surrounding the crash, several critical factors came into play, including the age of the aircraft, crew experience, and the challenges posed by the prevailing weather. Despite the crew's efforts to navigate the situation, the combination of these elements ultimately led to the tragic accident on March 9, 1997. The aftermath saw an increased focus on aviation safety standards and regulatory measures, particularly in the region's burgeoning aviation industry.

The crash spotlighted the aging fleet of many airlines operating in Southeast Asia at the time, raising concerns among regulators and aviation experts. Subsequent investigations sought to determine how similar events could be prevented in the future, and recommendations were made regarding the need for improvements in navigation systems, pilot training, and overall safety protocols in the airline industry. The incident left a significant mark on Vietnam Airlines and sparked discussions about the safety practices in aviation in a region with growing air traffic demands.