On March 23rd, 1994, The Green Ramp disaster was caused by a mid-air collision between a USAF F-16D Fighting Falcon and a C-130E Hercules on final approach at Pope Air Force Base, NC. The F-16 lost power, and its pilots ejected, leaving the uncontrollable jet to crash into a parked C-141 Starlifter, causing a massive fireball and debris to strike paratroopers waiting nearby.
Key factors and consequences included:
- Mid-air Collision: The F-16D, experiencing engine issues, collided with a C-130E during landing procedures, resulting in the F-16 crashing onto the "Green Ramp" tarmac where over 500 paratroopers were stationed.
- Failed Emergency Landing: The F-16's engine failed, and after the pilots ejected, the aircraft remained in afterburner and struck a parked C-141, causing a massive explosion and spreading fire.
- High Fatalities: The accident killed 23 paratroopers (24th died later), making it the worst peacetime loss of life for the 82nd Airborne Division since WWII.
- Contributing Factors: Reports suggested pilot error and deficiencies in handling the malfunctioning jet, as well as air traffic controller confusion, contributed to the collision.
