On October 13, 1990, a Mooney M20M (registration N987CM) was involved in an aviation accident near Culpeper, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Intergranular cracking of the clamp connecting the turbocharger and tailpipe. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During climbout, smoke filled the cabin from the rudder pedal area, followed by flames. The pilot landed gear-up, and the aircraft slid off the runway into a ditch, where fire erupted. Investigation revealed intergranular cracking of the turbocharger-to-tailpipe clamp.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing a possible overheat smell during an approach to land, but the odor dissipated. After landing, the pilot inspected the aircraft and found no discrepancies. The pilot departed shortly afterward. During the climbout, smoke began filling the cabin, emerging from the area of the rudder pedals. Flames appeared soon after. The pilot turned back to the airport and executed a gear-up landing. The aircraft slid off the runway and into a ditch. A fire erupted, but the pilot and passenger escaped the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed intergranular cracking of the clamp that connected the turbocharger and tailpipe. No other causal factors were identified.
Probable cause
Intergranular cracking of the clamp connecting the turbocharger and tailpipe.