10 fatalities

Four-Engine Aircraft Crash at Ashiya Air Base (57-0468)

Ashiya AFB, JapanLanding (descent or approach)

On May 20, 1959, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 57-0468) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan during landing or approach. 10 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine aircraft overshot the runway at Ashiya Air Base, stalled, and crashed into barracks, killing one crew member and nine people on the ground.

Incident Overview and Casualties A four-engine aircraft failed to land at Ashiya Air Base for an unknown reason and overshot the runway. At the end of the runway, the aircraft stalled and crashed into several barracks. The accident resulted in the death of one crew member, while eight other occupants were injured. On the ground, nine people were killed and several others were injured. The aircraft was destroyed. ## Investigation Status The exact circumstances of the mishap remain unclear. No specific aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or cause is provided in the available source information.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 May 1959 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan?

A four-engine aircraft overshot the runway at Ashiya Air Base, stalled, and crashed into barracks, killing one crew member and nine people on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 May 1959 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 May 1959 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 57-0468, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ashiya AFB, Japan.