How The Navy Landed A C-130 On A Carrier

“LOOK MA, NO HOOK”

In 1963, a massive KC-130F Hercules defied expectations—and the laws of naval aviation—by successfully landing and taking off from the USS Forrestal (CVA-59), becoming the largest and heaviest aircraft ever to do so. The daring test, carried out with minimal modifications to the aircraft and no carrier-launch or landing aids, remains a legendary feat unmatched in aviation history.

The operation was born out of a logistical challenge. The Navy needed a way to deliver heavy cargo, such as jet engines, to aircraft carriers operating far from land. The existing Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) aircraft couldn’t handle the load. The bold solution? Try the Lockheed KC-130F—a four-engine turboprop typically used by the Marines.

Spearheaded by Lt. James H. Flatley III, with a crew including co-pilot LCDR Smokey Stovall, flight engineer Ed Brennan, and Lockheed test pilot Ted Limmer, the team flew the 132-foot wingspan aircraft onto the pitching deck of the Forrestal with precision. With the tailhook and catapult systems completely bypassed, the aircraft’s side proudly bore the slogan: “LOOK MA, NO HOOK.”

Over several days, the team completed 29 touch-and-goes, 21 full-stop landings, and 21 unassisted takeoffs—at weights up to 121,000 pounds. One landing took just 267 feet; one takeoff needed only 745 feet. Incredibly, the Hercules once landed 150 feet from the stern and took off again from that exact spot.

Though the Navy deemed the concept impractical for routine use—citing deck space limitations and operational disruption—the test was a total success. Lt. Flatley received the Distinguished Flying Cross; his crew, the Air Medal. The aircraft, BuNo 149798, now rests at the National Naval Aviation Museum, a silent testament to one of the most audacious experiments in naval aviation.

More than 60 years later, the C-130 carrier landing remains a jaw-dropping moment in aviation history—a powerful reminder of what happens when bold ideas take flight.