April 5
2010
Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster
On April 5, 2010, a massive explosion ripped through the Upper Big Branch coal mine in Montcoal, West Virginia, killing 29 miners. The deadliest U.S. mine accident in decades, it exposed deep failings in mine safety practices and corporate responsibility, ultimately transforming regulation and accountability in the coal industry. Read more
1971
1971 Merpati Nusantara Airlines Vickers Viscount crash
On April 5, 1971, a Merpati Nusantara Airlines Vickers Viscount on approach to Tabing Airport near Padang, West Sumatra, descended below safe minima in poor weather and struck terrain short of the runway. All aboard were killed; the accident was later attributed to controlled flight into terrain amid limited ground-based navigational aids and deteriorated visibility. Read more
Stay in the Loop!
Become a Calamity Insider and get exclusive Calamity Calendar updates delivered straight to your inbox.
Thanks! You're now subscribed.