Casualties unknown

Aircraft Destroyed by Fire During Engine Start (N3561G)

Bluff, UT, US

On May 28, 1985, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N3561G) was involved in an aviation accident near Bluff, UT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft was destroyed by fire that began during an engine start. The pilot reported proper hot start procedures, but fuel pressure dropped to zero on the second attempt. The fire extinguisher failed to operate.

Incident Overview

An aircraft was destroyed by a fire that started during an engine start procedure. The pilot stated that he followed proper hot engine start procedures and did not pump the throttle. During the second start attempt, the pilot observed that the fuel pressure dropped to zero. Smoke was then seen emanating from the engine.

Fire Suppression Failure

The aircraft's fire extinguisher failed to operate, and the aircraft was completely destroyed by the fire.

Post-Accident Examination

Due to the extent of the fire damage, the pre-accident condition of the carburetor could not be evaluated.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 May 1985 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Bluff, UT?

An aircraft was destroyed by fire that began during an engine start. The pilot reported proper hot start procedures, but fuel pressure dropped to zero on the second attempt. The fire extinguisher failed to operate.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 May 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N3561G, at Bluff, UT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36444. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.