On May 15, 1996, a Cessna 320A (registration N600JR) was involved in an aviation accident near Provo, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A fuel leak most probably ignited by hot exhaust gases from the leaking right engine manifold exhaust system, the decision by the pilots to operate the aircraft with knowledge of the fuel leak, and the pilot-in-command's failure to maintain adequate clearance… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After a fuel leak was reported from the right engine, the aircraft was examined and then departed. An engine fire was reported in-flight before the aircraft crashed into Utah Lake. Postcrash examination found fire damage and exhaust manifold deterioration.
Background
The owner and flight instructor were advised by a ramp service agent of a fuel leak coming from the underside of the right engine after starting the left engine. The left engine was shut down and one of the pilots examined the leak and then re-entered the aircraft. Subsequently, the aircraft's left engine was restarted followed by the right engine, and the aircraft was taxied out for takeoff.
Flight and Accident
The first takeoff was aborted for undetermined reasons. The aircraft then departed. Approximately 40 minutes later, a radio transmission from the aircraft indicated an engine fire. The aircraft was witnessed diving toward the surface of Utah Lake and then skipping over the water before disappearing in a plume of spray. The aircraft crashed approximately two miles northwest of the Provo Municipal airport in 12 feet of water.
Postcrash Examination
Postcrash examination revealed an extensive fire in the right engine accessory area and aft into the wing locker area. Metallurgical examination of the right engine exhaust manifold components revealed erosion, oxidization, pitting, cracking and holes in areas of the exhaust tubing.