What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was in the initial phase of departure. The pilot reported that an aerosol spray can, which had been positioned on the rear of the glare shield, became electrically active during the takeoff ground roll. The can shorted across two electrical terminals, resulting in electrical arcing that punctured the container.
The contents of the can subsequently burst into flames. In response to the sudden fire, the pilot initiated an abort of the takeoff. During the attempt to bring the aircraft to a stop before reaching the end of the runway, the aircraft ground looped.
The investigation
Investigation of the event focused on the sequence of electrical failures and the physical condition of the aircraft following the incident. Investigators examined the area around the glare shield and the electrical terminals involved in the short circuit. The examination confirmed that the aerosol can had served as a conductor between two live terminals.
Findings
The primary factor leading to this event was the presence of a conductive object on the glare shield. Aerosol spray can shorted across electrical terminals, initiating an arc that ignited its contents. The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff was necessitated by the fire hazard. However, the subsequent loss of directional control resulted in a ground loop. Fire originating from the aerosol can was the immediate trigger for the aborted departure.
Safety message
This event highlights the critical importance of securing all loose items in the cockpit, particularly those near electrical systems. Objects placed on the glare shield or other surfaces can easily become conductive paths during flight operations. Pilots must ensure that no foreign objects are left in positions where they might contact electrical terminals or interfere with aircraft systems.