Air cargo aircraft destroyed by fire following engine failure

Casualties unknown • Venetie, AK, US

An air cargo flight experienced a number two engine failure and subsequent fire shortly after takeoff from a remote site, resulting in the loss of the aircraft.

What happened

After completing cargo offloading at a remote location, an air cargo flight departed the site. Shortly after takeoff, the crew observed the number two engine beginning to run rough. In response, the crew shut down the engine and feathered the propeller.

During the shutdown procedure, a fire warning light illuminated, and flames became visible near the number two engine. The crew attempted to suppress the flames by activating both banks of the engine fire extinguishers; however, these efforts were unsuccessful in extinguishing the fire.

While the crew was on approach to an off-airport emergency landing site, the number two engine detached from the aircraft and fell, igniting a brush fire upon impact. The crew performed a successful landing and evacuated the aircraft. Following the landing, the airplane continued to burn and was destroyed by fire. The number two engine was not located or recovered following the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-06-29 Douglas DC-4 accident near Venetie, AK?

An air cargo flight experienced a number two engine failure and subsequent fire shortly after takeoff from a remote site, resulting in the loss of the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-06-29 involved a Douglas DC-4, registration N103, operated by Hondu Carib Cargo, at Venetie, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A fire associated with the number 2 engine for undetermined reasons.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08048. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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