What happened
During a nighttime logistics mission supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, a US-operated MC-130H Hercules was performing a landing at Qayyarah Airfield West in northern Iraq. As the aircraft approached the runway, it encountered unannounced construction activity. Specifically, a trench was being excavated on runway 33, approximately 2,700 feet from the southern threshold of the strip.
Upon touchdown at a speed of 80 knots, the aircraft struck the construction site. The impact resulted in the shearing of the nose gear and the forward undercarriage. Additionally, the left wing became separated from the fuselage just outboard of the number two engine. The collision triggered a fire on the aircraft.
While the crew members were able to exit the aircraft without injury, the four passengers on board required help from ground crews and flight personnel to evacuate the burning wreckage.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified that the construction works involving the trench were neither marked with visual indicators nor announced via a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). The lack of warning regarding runway obstructions was the primary factor leading to the collision during the landing phase.