What happened
While operating under Title 14, CFR Part 12 and delivering fuel, the crew of a four-engine aircraft experienced a loss of power in the number two engine. In response to the power loss, the captain initiated shutdown procedures and intended to return to the airport. During this process, the engine ignited, prompting the crew to activate the onboard fire extinguishing system.
Although the crew initially believed the fire had been suppressed, the flames reignited. Due to the ongoing emergency, the captain decided to perform a gear-up landing on the nearby snow-covered tundra. Following the impact, a fire spread through the left wing of the aircraft.
Findings
Post-accident inspections conducted by company maintenance staff determined that the fire originated from a mechanical failure. Specifically, an overhauled engine cylinder failed at its base, which triggered the fire. Because the crash site was located in a highly remote area, the NTSB did not perform an examination of the wreckage.