Introduction
On 16 September 2020, an ATR 72-212A aircraft, registration D4-CCA, operated by Transportes Interilhas Cabo Verde, was conducting a regular transport flight from Praia (GVNP) to Sal (GVAC). The aircraft carried 4 crew members and 36 passengers.
Flight History
The aircraft departed Praia at 08:15 UTC. At 08:38 UTC, while cleared to descend to 2000 feet for approach to runway 01, the crew declared MAYDAY due to a fire in engine #1. The aircraft was at FL110, approximately 40 nautical miles from Sal. The fire alarm was classified as a MEMO ITEM, requiring immediate action per the QRH. The crew performed the engine shutdown, waited ten seconds, then discharged the first extinguishing agent. After a 30-second wait with the fire alarm still active, they discharged the second agent. The fire alarm continued for over 10 minutes.
During the short final approach, the fire alarm extinguished. The aircraft landed at Sal at 08:45 UTC. The crew requested that firefighters check for fire on engine #1; no fire was observed. The aircraft then taxied to the parking stand.
Findings
The investigation, conducted by the IPIAAM (Instituto de Prevenção e Investigação de Acidentes Aeronáuticos e Marítimos), focused on data and evidence collection. The following relevant findings were reported:
- Crew: The male captain, aged 32, and male first officer, aged 26, both Cabo Verdean nationals, held valid commercial pilot licenses and medical certificates.
- Aircraft: The ATR 72-212-A (serial 709) is a twin-engine, pressurized, medium-range turboprop with high wings. A 360-degree inspection of engine #1 revealed no flames, soot, heat, or fire damage. "There was no evidence of fire in flight or after landing."
- Fire Extinguishing System: The ENG FIRE PROTECTION TEST was performed and verified the system's operation.
- Airworthiness Management: Maintenance records from 31 August to 27 September 2020 showed no significant anomalies related to the fire detection and extinguishing system before the incident.
Conclusion
This preliminary report communicates information obtained during the initial phase of the ongoing investigation. No analysis or conclusions are included, as per the standard process for preliminary reports. Further evidence will be gathered as the investigation progresses.