What happened
Shortly after departing from Mashhad Airport, an aircraft climbing to flight level 230 encountered significant mechanical issues approximately 80 km from the departure airfield. During the initial climb phase, the autopilot disconnected and a fire ignited in the number four engine.
In an attempt to manage the emergency, the crew performed procedures to suppress the flames, but the fire could not be contained. As the situation progressed, the fire spread to the right wing of the aircraft type, causing the number four engine to detach from the airframe.
Despite the loss of an engine and structural damage, the crew managed to execute an emergency return to Mashhad Airport. The aircraft touched down on the runway 24 minutes after the initial incident. While the aircraft sustained significant damage, including the right wing breaking away upon impact with the ground, all 230 occupants were able to evacuate the plane without injury.
Findings
- The fire originated in the number four engine.
- The fire spread to the right wing structure.
- The engine detached from the wing due to the intensity of the fire.