Narrative:The Lockheed Constellation (named "Venlo") was approaching Bangkok when a vibration of the control wheel and dashboard were noticed. The vibrations nearly ceased when engine power was applied. During a left turn to base leg, a loud noise was heard and the aircraft vibrated heavily. One of the no. 3 engine propeller blades had separated and a fire broke out in the engine nacelle. The aircraft landed safely on runway 21. Before coming to rest however, the right main gear collapsed and a major fire erupted.
Probable Cause:
PROBABLE CAUSE: "The failure of the propeller-blade during flight shortly before landing at Don Muang Airport. This caused the loss of No.3 engine and fire to break out in the engine nacelle which could not be extinguished. When landing, the right main landing gears collapsed as a consequence of the fire."
Classification:
Prop/turbine blade separation
Forced landing on runway
Sources:
» ICAO Circular 38-AN/33 (48-49)
Photos
Map
This map shows the airport of departure and the intended destination of the flight. The line between the airports does
not display the exact flight path.
Distance from Karachi International Airport to Bangkok-Don Muang International Airport as the crow flies is 3680 km (2300 miles).
This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Network’s opinion as to the cause of the accident. It is preliminary and is based on the facts as they are known at this time.