Incident Overview
An en route airplane experienced a right engine fire that rapidly spread to the right wing. The fire caused an aileron to detach, rendering the aircraft uncontrollable. The pilot notified air traffic control and elected to perform an emergency landing. However, the airplane crashed in flames in an open field near Piketon. All five occupants on board were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an uncontrolled descent following the failure of the right engine turbocharger in flight. Escaping heat from the failed turbocharger ignited fuel and oil lines, which led to the aileron burning and detaching from the wing. The following factors were reported: powerplant and engine accessories failure, material failure, fire in the engine and wing, and separation in flight.
Sequence of Events
The right engine fire began in flight and quickly spread to the wing structure. The fire compromised the aileron's attachment, causing it to separate. With the aileron missing, the pilot lost roll control of the airplane. Despite declaring an emergency and attempting to land, the airplane crashed in an open field, resulting in a post-crash fire. All five occupants perished in the accident.
Conclusion
The crash was the result of an engine turbocharger failure that led to an in-flight fire, aileron detachment, and loss of control. No other contributing factors were identified beyond those listed in the probable cause.