Lisunov LI-2 accident at Tashauz, Turkmenistan, 31 Oct 1946 (CCCP-L4278)
On October 31, 1946, a Lisunov LI-2 (registration CCCP-L4278) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Tashauz, Turkmenistan during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the person in charge to refuel the aircraft in Ashgabat Airport failed to properly close the left fuel tank cap. This was possible because the fuel filter was not correctly set in the fuel line. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It was determined that the person in charge to refuel the aircraft in Ashgabat Airport failed to properly close the left fuel tank cap. This was possible because the fuel filter was not correctly set in the fuel line. This led fuel to leak in flight and on approach, the fuel spilled along the wing root, over the wing and eventually caught fire while in contact with high temperature elements of the left engine.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
During the last segment, while at a height of 10 meters, the crew reduced power on both engines when a fire erupted on the left wing. The pilot in command completed the landing and after touchdown, made an emergency brake procedure. When the aircraft came to a halt, all 16 occupants were able to evacuate the cabin and were unhurt. The aircraft burnt for about 12-14 minutes and was destroyed by fire.
Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that the person in charge to refuel the aircraft in Ashgabat Airport failed to properly close the left fuel tank cap. This was possible because the fuel filter was not correctly set in the fuel line. This led fuel to leak in flight and on approach, the fuel spilled along the wing root, over the wing and eventually caught fire while in contact with high temperature elements of the left engine.