11 fatalities

1970-04-10: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (56-0516) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Kadena AFB, Japan

Kadena AFB, JapanTakeoff (climb)

On April 10, 1970, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 56-0516) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Kadena AFB, Japan during takeoff. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of control and subsequent crash were caused by the failure of two engines during the takeoff climb. 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 1781236428Data APIEditorial standards

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.