In April of 1968 a BOAC B707 suffered an engine fire just after T/Off. Due to a combination of errors by the operating crew this led to an uncontrollable fire. During the turn back to Heathrow the number two engine pylon weakened by the fire failed and the engine fell from the aircraft. Despite the loss of the engine the fire continued to burn fiercely and shortly after touchdown there was a massive explosion which seperated the port wing. Subsequent fire destroyed the aircraft.
We are all familiar with the three elements equired for fire to exist Fuel/Oxygen/Ignition. In an uncontrollable fire we have to assume that the correct procedures have already been carried out, fire handles pulled and both fire extinguishers discharged - but the fire still exists
In an uncontrolled fire Oxygen & Ignition are self evident with the most likely source of fuel being a ruptured fuel line or S.O.V. which has failed to close. (As was the case on the B-707 above). It is the torching effect of this burning fuel which can lead to further damage to the wing and a possible loss of the aircraft.
Something to think about..........
