Engine Fire and Forced Landing Following Propeller Overspeed

Casualties unknown • Newberry, MI, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a wooded area after an engine fire and propeller overspeed occurred shortly after takeoff.

What happened

Shortly after departing the airport, while climbing to the assigned altitude, the aircraft experienced a propeller overspeed. In response to the malfunction, the pilot attempted to return to the departure airport. During this maneuver, smoke began to fill the cockpit and the engine subsequently stopped functioning.

The pilot performed a forced landing in a wooded area. Following the impact, the aircraft was consumed by fire.

The investigation

Investigators identified an intense fire within the engine accessory section, specifically located near the turbocharger. Records indicated that the oil and oil filter had been replaced three days prior to the accident. The only flight operated by the aircraft since the oil service was a two-hour flight conducted on the morning of the accident. The investigation noted that the oil filter is positioned on the accessory case in close proximity to the turbocharger.

Probable cause

An intense fire occurred in the engine accessory section near the turbocharger, leading to propeller overspeed and engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-01-22 Piper PA-32RT-300T accident near Newberry, MI?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a wooded area after an engine fire and propeller overspeed occurred shortly after takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-01-22 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N39505, at Newberry, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An intense fire occurred in the engine accessory section near the turbocharger, leading to propeller overspeed and engine failure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00608. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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