18 fatalities

Fuel Tank Explosion During Descent Leads to Crash Near Incirlik Airbase (74-2064)

Incirlik AFB (Adana), TurkeyLanding (descent or approach)

On March 14, 1980, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 74-2064) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Incirlik AFB (Adana), Turkey during landing or approach. 18 people were killed. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

While returning to Adana-Incirlik Airbase after a logistic mission, the aircraft experienced a left wing fuel tank explosion during descent, crashed 25 km away, and burst into flames, killing all 18 occupants.

Incident Overview

After completing a logistic mission, the crew was returning to Adana-Incirlik Airbase. As the aircraft descended through 5,000 feet, air traffic control cleared it to continue descending to 3,000 feet. At that moment, an explosion occurred in the left wing. The airplane went out of control and crashed on a hill approximately 25 kilometers from the airbase. Upon impact, the aircraft burst into flames.

Fatalities

All 18 occupants on board were killed in the accident.

Suspected Cause

Investigators believe that the explosion originated in a fuel tank located in the left wing. No further details about the cause have been released.