KJ
25 June 2003, 09:36
Kiwi Herc inflight fire!
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Inquiry Into Hercules In-flight Fire
24/06/2003 07:44 PM
xtramsn.co.nz/news/0,,376...32,00.html
An Air Force Hercules has been forced to make an emergency landing after an in-flight fire.
The plane was en route to Ohakea Airbase last night from the Solomon Islands when the crew noticed a fuel leak.
One of the engines was shut down but that failed to prevent a fire breaking out.
The blaze was extinguished and the Hercules landed safely in New Caledonia.
Requirements Air Force squadron leader Ric Cullinane says it was bringing home 33 Army engineers who had been assisting with civil aid in the Solomons.
Mr Cullinane says it is very unusual in this day and age with turbine aircraft to have an engine fire in flight but it is something the captain and crew handled brilliantly.
He says the Hercules will remain in New Caledonia for several days pending an investigation.
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Inquiry Into Hercules In-flight Fire
24/06/2003 07:44 PM
xtramsn.co.nz/news/0,,376...32,00.html
An Air Force Hercules has been forced to make an emergency landing after an in-flight fire.
The plane was en route to Ohakea Airbase last night from the Solomon Islands when the crew noticed a fuel leak.
One of the engines was shut down but that failed to prevent a fire breaking out.
The blaze was extinguished and the Hercules landed safely in New Caledonia.
Requirements Air Force squadron leader Ric Cullinane says it was bringing home 33 Army engineers who had been assisting with civil aid in the Solomons.
Mr Cullinane says it is very unusual in this day and age with turbine aircraft to have an engine fire in flight but it is something the captain and crew handled brilliantly.
He says the Hercules will remain in New Caledonia for several days pending an investigation.