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Pilot Experiences Cabin Smoke and Flames, Makes Emergency Landing (N7882U)

Greenwood, MS, US

On January 20, 2001, a Cessna 172 F (registration N7882U) operated by Jimmy Leon Thompson was involved in an aviation accident near Greenwood, MS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An in-flight fire for undetermined reasons. Finding: A factor is the maintenance modification was performed by company personnel prior to the flight. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported smoke in the cabin and flames behind him. After turning off the master switch, he turned back and landed on grass. The controller observed smoke during the emergency landing.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, he noticed smoke in the cabin. Upon turning around, he saw flames behind him. He turned off the master switch and turned the airplane back towards the airport. The pilot then landed on the grass next to the runway and exited the airplane.

Sequence of Events

After landing and exiting, the pilot suddenly executed a left turn and returned to the airport. The controller observed smoke coming from the airplane as the pilot maneuvered for an emergency landing on the airport.

The report does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, or damage. No time of day, weather conditions, or ATC involvement beyond the controller's observation are mentioned.

Official Findings

No probable cause was stated in the source.

In-flight fire & smoke

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jan 2001 Cessna 172 F accident near Greenwood, MS?

A pilot reported smoke in the cabin and flames behind him. After turning off the master switch, he turned back and landed on grass. The controller observed smoke during the emergency landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jan 2001 Cessna 172 F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jan 2001 involved a Cessna 172 F, registration N7882U, operated by Jimmy Leon Thompson, at Greenwood, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An in-flight fire for undetermined reasons. Finding: A factor is the maintenance modification was performed by company personnel prior to the flight.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010124X00354. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.