Emergency landing following engine fire at Melun-Villaroche Airport

No fatalities • Melun-Villaroche, France • Takeoff (climb)

An engine fire during a local flight forced an emergency landing at Melun-Villaroche Airport, resulting in an aircraft crash and contact with power lines.

What happened

During a local flight operation departing from Melun-Villaroche Airport, an engine fire occurred shortly after the aircraft had departed. While maintaining a low altitude, the crew encountered the fire and initiated an immediate return to the airfield.

During the attempt to land, the aircraft struck power cables, which led to a crash landing on its belly in a nearby field. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire upon landing. Despite the intensity of the flames, both occupants of the aircraft managed to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The 0 fatalities and 0 injuries were reported following the incident, though the aircraft was destroyed in the crash.

Findings

  • An engine fire occurred during the initial climb/low-altitude phase of flight.
  • Contact with power cables during the emergency descent led to the subsequent crash in a field.

Probable cause

An engine fire during a low-altitude flight necessitated an emergency return, during which the aircraft struck power lines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-05-31 North American B-25 Mitchell accident near Melun-Villaroche, France?

An engine fire during a local flight forced an emergency landing at Melun-Villaroche Airport, resulting in an aircraft crash and contact with power lines.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-05-31 North American B-25 Mitchell accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-05-31 involved a North American B-25 Mitchell, registration F-AZZU, operated by Société de Développement et de Promotion de l'Aviation, at Melun-Villaroche, France.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine fire during a low-altitude flight necessitated an emergency return, during which the aircraft struck power lines.

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