98 fatalities

1991-03-21: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (469) — Royal Saudi Air Force (القوات الجوية الملكية السعودية) — Ras al-Mishab, Saudi Arabia

Ras al-Mishab, Saudi ArabiaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 21, 1991, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 469) operated by Royal Saudi Air Force (القوات الجوية الملكية السعودية) was involved in an aviation accident near Ras al-Mishab, Saudi Arabia during landing or approach. 98 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew descended too low while approaching the airport in poor visibility due to heavy black smoke from oil wells. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781212143Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine aircraft carrying 95 Senegalese soldiers crashed near Ras al-Mishab Airport after the crew descended too low in poor visibility from oil well smoke. Three passengers were injured, and 98 others were killed.

Accident

A four-engine aircraft, engaged in the transfer of 95 Senegalese soldiers participating in the Gulf War, was approaching Ras al-Mishab Airport. The crew encountered heavy black smoke from burning oil wells, which significantly reduced visibility. During the approach, the aircraft descended too low, struck the ground, and crashed a few kilometers from the airport.

Casualties

The crash resulted in injuries to three passengers. The remaining 98 occupants, including the crew and passengers, were killed.

Context

The aircraft was completing a mission to transport Senegalese soldiers involved in the Gulf War. The smoke from the oil wells, set ablaze during the conflict, created hazardous flying conditions near the airport.

Probable cause

The crew descended too low while approaching the airport in poor visibility due to heavy black smoke from oil wells.