Incident Overview
A Douglas DC-3 aircraft experienced an in-flight engine fire and subsequently conducted a forced landing at a nearby airport. The event occurred after the right engine assembly separated from the airframe.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, during cruise flight at an altitude of 5,000 feet, a loud "bang" was heard. The pilot then observed a reflection of fire on the left engine nacelle.
Fire and Damage
Post-incident examination revealed fire damage on the trailing edge of the right wing and on the landing gear assembly. The fire was linked to an oil-fed blaze originating from the engine.
Engine Examination
Inspection of the right engine showed that the No. 12 cylinder had separated from the main case. Evidence of oil from this cylinder was found across the engine and exhaust systems. Further examination revealed that cylinders Nos. 7, 8, and 9 had also failed and separated. The engine subsequently seized and separated from the airframe.
Probable Cause
The failure and separation of No. 12 cylinder from the engine case, resulting in an in-flight oil-fed fire, and the subsequent separation of the right engine from the airframe.