Incident Overview
On January 13, 1990, a Cessna 172 experienced a carburetor fire and was subsequently towed to a hangar for repairs. During maintenance, the air cleaner and carburetor were removed, but the fuel line was left uncapped. The lower cowling was reattached using only two screws, and no placard was placed in the cockpit warning of the incomplete condition. The aircraft key was not removed from service, and the airplane was returned to the line for parking.
Subsequent Events
Three days later, a pilot arrived at the airport and requested the aircraft key from the attendant. According to the pilot, he performed a preflight inspection following the manual. He then entered the cockpit and attempted to start the engine. During the start attempt, a fire erupted. The pilot exited the airplane through the flames and sustained burns.
Findings
No placard was placed indicating the maintenance status, and the fuel line was not capped. The lower cowling was secured with only two screws. The pilot reported using the manual for preflight, but no further details about the inspection were provided.