On January 24, 1982, a Cessna 172RG (registration N6492V) operated by Mitchell Janwszewski was involved in an aviation accident near Wheeling, IL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Pilot shut down engine to free frozen brake pads, restarted, saw smoke from instrument panel, evacuated, and aircraft burned within three minutes. Wreckage examination ruled out engine compartment as fire origin.
Incident Description
The pilot reported that after starting the engine and allowing it to warm up for approximately five to ten minutes, the engine was shut down to investigate frozen brake pads. After the brake pads were freed, the engine was restarted. During cranking, the pilot noticed smoke emanating from under the instrument panel. The aircraft was immediately evacuated, and within three minutes, it was engulfed in flames.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fire did not originate in the engine compartment, nor was there a concentration of extreme heat in that area. The exact source of the fire was not determined from the examination.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Jan 1982 Cessna 172RG accident near Wheeling, IL?
Pilot shut down engine to free frozen brake pads, restarted, saw smoke from instrument panel, evacuated, and aircraft burned within three minutes. Wreckage examination ruled out engine compartment as fire origin.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jan 1982 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N6492V, operated by Mitchell Janwszewski, at Wheeling, IL.
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