On November 10, 2008, an Antonov AN-12 (registration UR-PLV) operated by Veteran Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Pointe-Noire, Congo during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the fire started in the cargo bay near a generator. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Minutes after takeoff, a cargo fire prompted an emergency declaration. The aircraft returned and landed, but was destroyed by fire. All six occupants escaped uninjured.
Incident Overview
Shortly after departing from Pointe-Noire Airport, the flight crew contacted air traffic control to declare an emergency following a fire that had broken out in the cargo compartment. The aircraft was approximately 80 kilometers from the airport at the time of the declaration.
The crew executed a return and landed the aircraft on the main runway. After coming to a stop, the aircraft was engulfed in flames. All six persons on board evacuated without injury. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the fire.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, it is believed that the fire originated in the cargo bay near a generator.