Accident Synopsis
On 3 September 2010, a Boeing 747-44AF freighter, registration N571UP, suffered an uncontained cargo fire during flight. The fire led to progressive systems failures, including pitch control anomalies and crew oxygen system issues, culminating in a loss of control and uncontrolled descent into terrain near Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Flight History
The flight crew initiated an inflight turn-back and emergency descent at approximately 15:14. They armed and activated the fire suppression system at 15:15 and donned oxygen masks as smoke entered the cockpit. Between 15:15 and 15:16, pitch control anomalies were noted. By 15:17, smoke reduced visibility in the cockpit. At 15:18, the flight management computer was used for inputs. At 15:20, both pilots experienced crew oxygen system anomalies, and at 15:22 the captain became incapacitated. Radio communications were relayed through other aircraft and on guard frequency. At 15:38, the crew conducted a missed approach to Dubai Runway 12L and overflew the runway. They then considered diversion to Sharjah International Airport. At 15:40, the aircraft turned and descended, followed by uncontrolled flight into terrain at 15:41, at which point data ended.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Boeing 747-44AF, equipped with a Class E cargo compartment. The cargo fire was uncontained, affecting flight control cables and systems. The flight control system, including elevator and rudder controls, experienced anomalies attributed to the fire. The crew oxygen system also showed anomalies, with both pilots affected. The aircraft was configured with fire suppression and smoke evacuation systems, but the fire overwhelmed these measures.
Investigation
The accident investigation was conducted by the General Civil Aviation Authority of the United Arab Emirates under ICAO Annex 13. The investigation focused on the uncontained cargo fire and its effects on aircraft systems, including flight controls and crew oxygen.