On September 23, 1994, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration PK-PLV) operated by HeavyLift Cargo Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Hong Kong-Kai Tak, China during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of the following factors: - The n°4 propeller went into Beta range shortly after rotation because the cable of the speed lever failed, - The crew were unable to maintain control of the aircraft following this occurrence. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During initial climb after a normal takeoff, engine n°4 entered Beta range and lost power. The aircraft rolled right, struck the runway edge, and plunged into Kowloon Bay. Six occupants were killed; six rescued.
Accident Details
After a normal takeoff roll, the pilot-in-command initiated rotation. During the initial climb, at approximately 100 feet above ground level and an airspeed of 122 knots, engine number 4 entered the Beta range and subsequently lost power. The crew attempted to regain control, but the aircraft rolled to the right. As a result, the right wing struck the grassy area adjacent to runway 13. The aircraft then went out of control and plunged into Kowloon Bay, coming to rest approximately 500 metres offshore. Of the occupants on board, six were rescued, while six others were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident resulted from the following factors: the number 4 propeller entered the Beta range shortly after rotation due to a failure of the speed lever cable, and the crew was unable to maintain control of the aircraft following this occurrence.
