13 fatalities

1962-05-17: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (56-0546) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi, KenyaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 17, 1962, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 56-0546) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Nairobi, Kenya during landing or approach. 13 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781244770Data APIEditorial standards

A flight carrying recovery team personnel for the Aurora 7 mission struck a cloud-shrouded mountain 32 km west of Nairobi-Embakasi Airport, destroying the aircraft and killing all 13 occupants.

Flight Details

The aircraft was operating a flight from Wheelus Airbase in Mitiga to Nairobi, carrying support personnel and equipment for the recovery team of the Aurora 7, the second American manned orbital flight.

Accident Sequence

While descending to Nairobi from the west, after completing a holding circuit, the crew encountered poor weather conditions and limited visibility. The airplane subsequently struck the slope of a mountain located 32 km west of the airport of Nairobi-Embakasi. The mountain was shrouded in clouds at the time of the impact.

Aftermath

The aircraft was destroyed in the accident, and all 13 occupants were killed.