Engine fire leads to fatal crash during approach to Belém

2 fatalities • Babaçulândia, Brazil • Flight

An aircraft experienced an in-flight engine fire while en route to Belém-Val-de-Cans Airport, resulting in a crash and two fatalities.

What happened

While operating a flight toward Belém-Val-de-Cans Airport, the aircraft's right engine experienced an intense fire. Upon discovering the blaze, the crew attempted to suppress the flames using onboard extinguishing equipment; however, these efforts failed to contain the fire.

In response to the uncontrolled fire, the pilot initiated an emergency descent and attempted to land the plane. During this maneuver, the aircraft crashed while heavily engulfed in flames. The accident resulted in two fatalities among the crew, while one other occupant sustained injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that a rupture in a fuel line occurred during flight. This failure allowed fuel to leak directly into the engine compartment, where it ignited upon contact with high-temperature components.

Probable cause

A broken fuel line caused a leak that ignited when it came into contact with hot engine parts.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1959-07-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Babaçulândia, Brazil?

An aircraft experienced an in-flight engine fire while en route to Belém-Val-de-Cans Airport, resulting in a crash and two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1959-07-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1959-07-15 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration PP-BEE, operated by Paraense Transportes Aéreos, at Babaçulândia, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A broken fuel line caused a leak that ignited when it came into contact with hot engine parts.

Loading the flight search…