21 fatalities

1985-01-22: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (56-0501) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Trujillo, Honduras

Trujillo, HondurasLanding (descent or approach)

On January 22, 1985, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 56-0501) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Trujillo, Honduras during landing or approach. 21 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 1781218783Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on approach to Trujillo Airport in marginal weather struck the water with its left wingtip during a left turn at low height and crashed into the sea, killing all 21 occupants.

Accident Details

The aircraft was on an uneventful flight from Howard Airbase in Panama when the crew initiated an approach to Trujillo Airport under marginal weather conditions. During the approach, while executing a left turn at low altitude with the landing gear and flaps retracted, the left wingtip made contact with the water surface. The aircraft subsequently became uncontrollable and crashed into the sea approximately 13 kilometers from the airport.

Occupants

All 21 occupants on board were killed in the accident.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, weather conditions were reported as marginal. Visibility was estimated at 2,500 meters with haze. The ceiling was 1,500 feet. Winds were from the north, gusting to 25 knots.