1989-01-30: Lockheed C-130 Hercules — Royal Canadian Air Force - RCAF — Fort Wainwright AFB (Ladd Field), United States of America

9 fatalities • Fort Wainwright AFB (Ladd Field), United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

Probable cause

It was determined that the loss of altitude on short final was caused by the combination of frost accretion and an insufficient approach speed.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

On short final to Fort Wainwright AFB, the airplane lost height, struck approach equipments then an embankment and eventually crashed about 600 feet short of runway threshold. Both pilots and seven passengers were killed while nine other occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed. It was engaged in a combined exercice called 'Brim Frost'. At the time of the accident, the OAT was -46° C.

Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that the loss of altitude on short final was caused by the combination of frost accretion and an insufficient approach speed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1989-01-30 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Fort Wainwright AFB (Ladd Field), United States of America?

On short final to Fort Wainwright AFB, the airplane lost height, struck approach equipments then an embankment and eventually crashed about 600 feet short of runway threshold. Both pilots and seven passengers were killed while nine other occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed. It was engaged in a combined…

Were there any fatalities in the 1989-01-30 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 9 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1989-01-30 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 130318, operated by Royal Canadian Air Force - RCAF, at Fort Wainwright AFB (Ladd Field), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It was determined that the loss of altitude on short final was caused by the combination of frost accretion and an insufficient approach speed.

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