The Israeli air force has grounded its Lockheed Martin C-130Hercules fleet following the disintegration of a propeller blade during landing, injuring seven soldiers. The C-130E landed at Dov air base, Tel Aviv, on 17 August, with 40 soldiers on board following a flight from the Hazerim base. Seconds after touchdown, when the pilot operated the pitch reverse system, a large part of a blade from the Number 4 (outer right) engine detached and entered the starboard fuselage and departed through the port side. The impact in the reinforced section made a small entry hole but larger exit hole in the fuselage (pictured). As a result, the Israeli air force grounded all 20 C-130s until a full investigation is concluded.
Source: Flight International
