What happened
Approximately two hours following takeoff, while cruising at 13,000 feet, the right engine experienced a total loss of fuel flow. Despite the zero fuel flow reading, the engine remained operational, producing 24 inches of manifold pressure. During this period, a brown discoloration was observed on the upper surface of the right wing near the tip tank spar cap.
The crew notified Air Traffic Control of their intention to perform a precautionary landing at Raton and initiated a rapid descent. As the aircraft approached for its final approach, the discoloration became more pronounced on the right engine nacelle and the wing locker. Upon touchdown, flames emerged from the right side of the fuselage, and smoke began to infiltrate the cabin.
Following the landing, the crew shut down both engines and attempted to use the braking system. However, the brakes failed to function. To avoid remaining on the runway, the pilot intentionally steered the aircraft into a snowbank. This maneuver resulted in the collapse of the nose gear. Within 15 minutes of the event, much of the wreckage had been destroyed by fire. All three occupants escaped the incident without injury.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified several critical mechanical failures:
- The right engine suffered a loss of fuel pressure and instrument malfunction.
- A total failure of the aircraft's braking system occurred during the landing roll.
- The nose gear assembly collapsed due to the impact with the snowbank.
- The exact origin and ignition source of the fire could not be established.