8 fatalities

1968-02-10: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (149813) — United States Navy - USN — Khe Sanh, Vietnam

Khe Sanh, VietnamLanding (descent or approach)

On February 10, 1968, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 149813) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Khe Sanh, Vietnam during landing or approach. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The explosion that occurred after landing was caused by the ignition of the jet fuel carried on board. 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 1781239098Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Đà Nẵng to Khe Sanh was struck by enemy artillery on approach; engine three exploded. After touchdown, the aircraft exploded and burned, killing all five passengers and three crew members and injuring three others.

Incident

A cargo flight operating from Đà Nẵng to Khe Sanh came under enemy artillery fire while on approach to Khe Sanh. The aircraft's number three engine exploded as a result of the strike. The pilot-in-command continued the approach and landed the airplane. After touchdown, the aircraft exploded and came to rest in flames on the runway.

Aircraft and Crew

The aircraft carried a load of various equipment and fuel drums. It was totally destroyed by a post-crash fire. The crew consisted of CW0 Henry Wildfang, Maj Robert E. White, M/Sgt John D'Adamo, † LCpl David Ralf Devik, and † LCpl Jerry Wayne Ferren. The aircraft was carrying five passengers and three crew members.

Aftermath

All five passengers and three crew members were killed. Three other individuals were injured. According to reports, the explosion that occurred after landing was caused by the ignition of the jet fuel carried on board.

Probable cause

The explosion that occurred after landing was caused by the ignition of the jet fuel carried on board.