6 fatalities

1978-11-30: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (68-10936) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Cottageville, United States of America

Cottageville, United States of AmericaFlight

On November 30, 1978, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 68-10936) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Cottageville, United States of America in flight. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost control and entered a spiral descent after being struck by lightning while flying through stormy weather. 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 1781225857Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine airplane crashed in a field while traveling from Pope Air Force Base to Charleston, resulting in the deaths of all six crew members.

What happened

During a flight originating from Pope Air Force Base and destined for Charleston, a four-engine aircraft encountered severe weather conditions. While maintaining an altitude of 14,000 feet amidst stormy weather, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. The plane entered a spiral descent before impacting a field.

There were no survivors in the accident. All six crew members on board the aircraft perished in the crash.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary reason for the loss of control was an impact with lightning during the flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control and entered a spiral descent after being struck by lightning while flying through stormy weather.