29 fatalities

1987-12-14: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (2468) — Brazilian Air Force - Força Aérea Brasileira (1941-) — Vila dos Remédios, Brazil

Vila dos Remédios, BrazilLanding (descent or approach)

On December 14, 1987, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 2468) operated by Brazilian Air Force - Força Aérea Brasileira (1941-) was involved in an aviation accident near Vila dos Remédios, Brazil during landing or approach. 29 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: For unknown reasons, the crew was approaching the island at an insufficient altitude. Lack of visual references was considered as a contributing factor. 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 1781215669Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the ocean about 16 km off Fernando de Noronha Island during a night approach. All 29 occupants were killed and the aircraft was destroyed.

Background

The aircraft was completing a flight from Recife to Vila dos Remédios, located on Fernando de Noronha Island. On board were six crew members of the Brazilian Air Force, two members of the Brazilian Navy, 13 local workers, and eight island residents, for a total of 29 occupants.

Accident

The approach was initiated by night. During the approach, the aircraft hit the water surface and crashed in the ocean approximately 16 km offshore. The aircraft was destroyed and all 29 occupants were killed.

Investigation

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. For unknown reasons, the crew was approaching the island at an insufficient altitude. Lack of visual references was considered as a contributing factor.