Incident Overview
An aircraft en route to Bangkok experienced vibrations from engine number three approximately 450 kilometers from its intended destination. The crew informed air traffic control of the issue. The flight continued without further incident until the descent was initiated.
Sequence of Events
On final approach to runway 21 at Don Mueang Airport, a propeller blade detached from engine number three. The engine caught fire and experienced severe vibrations. Upon touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to skid for several yards before coming to rest in flames.
Evacuation and Damage
All 44 occupants evacuated the aircraft safely before the aircraft, named 'Venlo', was destroyed by fire.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause was the failure of a propeller blade during flight shortly before landing at Don Mueang Airport. This caused the loss of number three engine and a fire in the engine nacelle that could not be extinguished. The right main landing gear collapsed as a consequence of the fire.