What happened
While cruising at FL 330, the flightcrew detected smoke within the cabin cargo compartment. In response to the emergency, the crew declared an emergency and diverted the aircraft to Newburgh/Stewart International Airport. Although the aircraft landed safely, a fire broke out that lasted approximately four hours from the time smoke was first detected, ultimately resulting in the aircraft being destroyed by fire.
The investigation
Investigators examined the cargo area and determined that the most intense heat and fire damage were concentrated around container 6R. This specific container, which contained a DNA synthesizer, held flammable liquids. Container 6R suffered more structural consumption than any other unit in the hold and was the only container to show severe damage to the floor. Additionally, the bottom surface of container 6R exhibited heat damage, and the composite flooring directly beneath it showed extensive scorching. Despite these findings, investigators could not determine the exact point of origin for the fire due to insufficient reliable evidence.
Findings
- The presence of flammable chemicals within the DNA synthesizer was unintended and unknown to both the package preparer and the shipper.
- The captain failed to properly manage crew resources, specifically by neglecting to call for checklists or monitor the completion of required checklist items during the emergency.
- Existing Department of Transportation hazardous materials regulations do not sufficiently ensure that hazardous materials information is quickly retrievable in a format that is useful to emergency responders.