Incident
A special cargo flight operating on behalf of the US Air Force experienced a series of malfunctions shortly after takeoff from Dover Air Force Base, leading to a belly landing in a field just short of the runway. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair, and all three crew members suffered minor injuries.
Sequence of Events
After departure, while climbing, a false engine fire warning triggered the propeller of one engine to feather. The crew opted to return to the airfield for a safe landing. However, during the approach, the landing gear could not be lowered and locked due to a hydraulic pressure leak in the windshield wiper system. Unable to extend the gear, the captain decided to execute a belly landing in a field located a few dozen yards short of the runway.
Aftermath
The aircraft came to rest in the field, damaged beyond economical repair. The three crew members exited the aircraft with minor injuries. The investigation determined that the false fire warning caused the propeller feathering, and the hydraulic leak prevented gear extension.
Probable Cause (Official Findings)
The propeller of an engine was feathered due to a false fire warning after takeoff.