Aircraft accident near Guelmim Airport

80 fatalities • Guelmim, Morocco • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Guelmim, resulting in the deaths of all 80 people on board.

What happened

A flight traveling from Dakhla to Kenitra, which included a scheduled stop in Guelmim, crashed during its arrival phase. The aircraft was transporting a total of 80 people, consisting of 60 soldiers, 12 civilians, and 8 crew members. As the aircraft approached the runway at Guelmim Airport, the crew encountered difficult visibility caused by marginal weather conditions.

During the descent, the aircraft struck the slope of a rocky mountain approximately 10 km before reaching the runway. The force of the impact and a subsequent fire resulted in the total destruction of the four-engine aircraft. While two passengers initially survived the impact, they both passed away the following day, bringing the total fatalities to 80.

Probable cause

Poor visibility due to marginal weather conditions led to the aircraft striking terrain during its approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-07-26 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Guelmim, Morocco?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Guelmim, resulting in the deaths of all 80 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-07-26 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 80 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-07-26 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration CNA-OQ, operated by Royal Moroccan Air Force - Forces Royales Air, at Guelmim, Morocco.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Poor visibility due to marginal weather conditions led to the aircraft striking terrain during its approach.

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