1972-06-05: Lockheed C-130 Hercules — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Dye 3, Greenland

1 fatality • Dye 3, Greenland • Landing (descent or approach)

Probable cause

It is believed that the approach speed was too low, causing the airplane to stall during the last segment.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew was engaged in a supply mission from Thule Airbase to Dye 3 Airstrip located about 320 km east of Sondreströmfjord, Greenland. On final approach, the airplane lost height and struck the ground. On impact, the landing gear, skis, outboard fuel tanks, and the number one engine were torn off as well as 12 feet from the left wing tip and six feet of the right wing tip. The airplane came to rest in flames in the snow. Seven occupants were slightly injured while the eighth one, a Danish citizen, was killed when a propeller blade detached and penetrated the fuselage.

Probable cause (official findings): It is believed that the approach speed was too low, causing the airplane to stall during the last segment.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-06-05 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Dye 3, Greenland?

The crew was engaged in a supply mission from Thule Airbase to Dye 3 Airstrip located about 320 km east of Sondreströmfjord, Greenland. On final approach, the airplane lost height and struck the ground. On impact, the landing gear, skis, outboard fuel tanks, and the number one engine were torn off as well as 12 feet…

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-06-05 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-06-05 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 57-0495, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Dye 3, Greenland.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It is believed that the approach speed was too low, causing the airplane to stall during the last segment.

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