Casualties unknown

1987-11-12: Beech E18S (N25SM) — Reno, NV

Reno, NV, US

On November 12, 1987, a Beech E18S (registration N25SM) was involved in an aviation accident near Reno, NV. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, a pilot encountered right engine over-temperature, compressor stall, and an inflight fire. The fire self-extinguished after lowering landing gear. Investigation revealed a missing snap ring on the oil temperature relief valve.

Incident Overview

Shortly after takeoff and following the raising of the landing gear, the pilot observed an over-temperature condition on the right engine. A power reduction was executed, after which symptoms of a compressor stall occurred. In response, the pilot shut down the right engine and initiated a 180-degree turn.

Engine Failure and Fire

During the turn, the cockpit filled with smoke, and flames were visible emanating from the right engine area. The pilot discharged the right engine fire bottle, but the fire persisted. Upon lowering the landing gear, the fire extinguished itself without further intervention.

Investigation Findings

Examination revealed that the snap ring securing the right engine oil temperature relief valve was missing. The relief valve itself was found on the floor of the engine nacelle. The right engine had been replaced 1.8 flight hours prior to the incident due to foreign object damage (FOD). Engine oil had escaped after the relief valve separated, accumulating in the wheel well, wing, and engine nacelle. This oil ignited, feeding the inflight fire.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32634. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.