Aircraft crash near Kadena Air Force Base

11 fatalities • Kadena AFB, Japan • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed into the ocean southeast of Kadena Air Force Base following a double engine failure shortly after takeoff.

What happened

During a flight departing from Kadena Air Force Base destined for Vietnam, an aircraft experienced a critical malfunction during its initial climb. The crew reported to ground controllers that two engines had ceased functioning, prompting an immediate decision to abort the mission and return to the airfield.

While attempting to manage the emergency, the aircraft became uncontrollable. The plane subsequently impacted the ocean at a location approximately 24 km southeast of Kadena Air Force Base. There were 11 fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was a double engine failure occurring during the climb-out phase of the flight. The specific reason for the simultaneous loss of both engines remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The loss of control and subsequent crash were caused by the failure of two engines during the takeoff climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-04-10 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Kadena AFB, Japan?

An aircraft crashed into the ocean southeast of Kadena Air Force Base following a double engine failure shortly after takeoff.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-04-10 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-04-10 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 56-0516, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Kadena AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control and subsequent crash were caused by the failure of two engines during the takeoff climb.

Loading the flight search…