Casualties unknown

Electrical fire destroys aircraft after takeoff due to incorrect booster voltage (N5421Z)

Millard, NE, US

On April 23, 1991, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N5421Z) operated by Dale E. Frimodt was involved in an aviation accident near Millard, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The use of a 24-volt booster instead of the specified 12-volt booster, which caused melted wires and an electrical fire. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An electrical fire erupted under the passenger seat shortly after takeoff, leading to an emergency landing and post-impact destruction of the aircraft.

What happened

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, an electrical fire broke out beneath the passenger's seat. The crew initiated an emergency landing procedure to address the immediate threat. Upon landing, the airplane sustained damage. A fire ignited after the aircraft came to rest, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.

The investigation

Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed the root cause of the electrical failure. The airplane had been started using a 24-volt booster instead of the required 12-volt booster. This voltage mismatch caused the wires to melt, leading to a short circuit and the subsequent fire.

Findings

The use of an incorrect 24-volt booster during engine start led to melted wiring. This electrical failure resulted in a fire that destroyed the aircraft.

Probable cause

The use of a 24-volt booster instead of the specified 12-volt booster, which caused melted wires and an electrical fire.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16766. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.