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In-Flight Fire Forces Emergency Landing at Bereina (VH-PAT)

Bereina, Papua New GuineaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 8, 1961, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration VH-PAT) operated by Papuan Air Transport - Patair was involved in an aviation accident near Bereina, Papua New Guinea during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fire was caused by incorrectly packed chemicals. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo aircraft diverted to Bereina after an in-flight fire. The crew evacuated safely as the aircraft burned for about 24 hours. The fire was attributed to incorrectly packed chemicals.

Incident

While cruising at an altitude of 12,000 feet, the crew reported an in-flight fire to ground personnel and decided to divert to Bereina for an emergency landing. Despite their efforts, the fire could not be extinguished, and the aircraft landed while engulfed in flames, coming to rest fully ablaze.

Crew Response

All three crew members successfully evacuated the aircraft without injury. The aircraft continued to burn for approximately 24 hours, ultimately being completely destroyed.

Investigation

Official findings stated that the fire was believed to have been caused by incorrectly packed chemicals.

Probable cause

The fire was caused by incorrectly packed chemicals.
In-flight fire & smoke

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1961 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Bereina, Papua New Guinea?

A cargo aircraft diverted to Bereina after an in-flight fire. The crew evacuated safely as the aircraft burned for about 24 hours. The fire was attributed to incorrectly packed chemicals.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Apr 1961 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1961 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration VH-PAT, operated by Papuan Air Transport - Patair, at Bereina, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The fire was caused by incorrectly packed chemicals.

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