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Aircraft excursion during training flight at Ramstein Air Base (59-1534)

Ramstein AFB, GermanyLanding (descent or approach)

On May 27, 1961, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 59-1534) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Ramstein AFB, Germany during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft drifted off the runway following touchdown during a training flight. 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 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a loss of control following touchdown during a local training mission at Ramstein Air Base, resulting in significant damage.

What happened

During a routine local training mission conducted at Ramstein Air Base, an aircraft lost directional control immediately after landing. Following the touchdown on the runway, the plane veered toward the left side of the strip and eventually came to a stop off the paved surface.

While the incident resulted in no injuries to the crew, the impact and excursion caused extensive damage to the airframe. The aircraft was subsequently determined to be a total loss, as it was damaged beyond repair.

Findings

  • The aircraft veered off the runway following the landing phase.
  • The primary factor in the accident was the loss of control after touchdown.

Probable cause

The aircraft drifted off the runway following touchdown during a training flight.

Related events

Same operator

More Lockheed C-130 Hercules safety records →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 May 1961 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Ramstein AFB, Germany?

An aircraft experienced a loss of control following touchdown during a local training mission at Ramstein Air Base, resulting in significant damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 May 1961 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 May 1961 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 59-1534, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ramstein AFB, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft drifted off the runway following touchdown during a training flight.

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