On January 9, 2002, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 160021) operated by United States Marine Corps (USMC) was involved in an aviation accident near Shamsi AFB, Pakistan during landing or approach. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew lost their orientation while approaching Shamsi AFB by night and without any visual references on ground. 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.
During a night approach to Shamsi AFB in limited visibility, a four-engine aircraft struck a mountain slope at 3,200 feet, killing all seven occupants. The crew lost orientation due to lack of visual references.
Incident Details
A four-engine aircraft on a flight from Jacobabad was conducting a night approach to Shamsi Air Force Base. While descending in limited visibility at an altitude of 3,200 feet, the aircraft struck the slope of a mountain located a few kilometers from the airfield. All seven occupants were killed.
Investigation and Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the crew lost their orientation while approaching Shamsi AFB at night and without any visual references on the ground. The absence of ground visibility and the darkness were cited as factors in the loss of orientation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Jan 2002 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Shamsi AFB, Pakistan?
During a night approach to Shamsi AFB in limited visibility, a four-engine aircraft struck a mountain slope at 3,200 feet, killing all seven occupants. The crew lost orientation due to lack of visual references.
Were there any fatalities in the 9 Jan 2002 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Jan 2002 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 160021, operated by United States Marine Corps (USMC), at Shamsi AFB, Pakistan.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crew lost their orientation while approaching Shamsi AFB by night and without any visual references on ground.