On June 14, 1986, a Cessna 172 (registration N30265) was involved in an aviation accident near Pelion, SC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A backfire during engine start that initiated an induction fire, which could not be extinguished by the occupants. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A backfire during an engine start attempt ignited an induction fire that grew out of control, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft on the airport ramp.
What happened
The private pilot and a student pilot had paused their landing practice to take a break for a soft drink. Upon returning to the aircraft, they attempted to restart the engine. During this process, a backfire occurred, which immediately ignited an induction fire. The intensity of the fire increased rapidly. The occupant exited the aircraft in an attempt to suppress the flames but was unable to extinguish them. Consequently, the aircraft burned to the ground on the airport ramp.
The investigation
The examination focused on the sequence of events leading to the fire. Evidence indicated that the ignition source was the backfire during the engine start procedure. The rapid growth of the fire prevented effective suppression by the occupants.
Probable cause
A backfire during engine start that initiated an induction fire, which could not be extinguished by the occupants.
What happened in the 14 Jun 1986 Cessna 172 accident near Pelion, SC?
A backfire during an engine start attempt ignited an induction fire that grew out of control, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft on the airport ramp.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jun 1986 Cessna 172 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jun 1986 involved a Cessna 172, registration N30265, at Pelion, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A backfire during engine start that initiated an induction fire, which could not be extinguished by the occupants.
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