Fatal aircraft crash near Boufarik Air Base

15 fatalities • Boufarik AFB, Algeria • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft on a training mission crashed near Beni Mered following an engine fire, resulting in multiple fatalities on board and on the ground.

What happened

During a routine training mission departing from Boufarik AFB, the crew encountered a critical emergency shortly after takeoff. While the aircraft was in its initial climb phase, the crew notified air traffic control of an engine fire and indicated their intention to perform an emergency return to the airfield.

Within seconds of this communication, the aircraft experienced a total loss of control. The plane descended and struck the ground in the Beni Mered district, crashing less than 2 km from the threshold of runway 22. The impact and subsequent post-crash fire caused the complete destruction of the aircraft and also ignited eight nearby residential structures.

Casualties

Four fatalities occurred among the crew members.
11 fatalities were reported on the ground.
Six individuals on the ground sustained serious injuries.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control during an emergency return following an engine fire during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-06-30 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Boufarik AFB, Algeria?

An aircraft on a training mission crashed near Beni Mered following an engine fire, resulting in multiple fatalities on board and on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 2003-06-30 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 15 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-06-30 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 7T-WHQ, operated by Algerian Air Force - Al Quwwat Aljawwija Aljaza'Eriiya, at Boufarik AFB, Algeria.

What was the probable cause of the accident?