Aircraft fire following failed engine start

Casualties unknown • Sanford, ME, US

An aircraft was destroyed by fire on the ground after an unsuccessful attempt to start the engine resulted in smoke and subsequent flames.

What happened

The pilot attempted to start the engine by priming it four times. Although the engine initially started, it failed to continue running. After priming the engine two additional times, the pilot attempted a second start-up, but the engine did not restart. During this process, the pilot observed smoke emanating from the engine area.

Upon exiting the aircraft, the pilot discovered an active fire and attempted to suppress it using a fire extinguisher. However, strong winds caused the fire to accelerate, leading to the total destruction of the airplane.

The investigation

An examination of the wreckage was conducted, but investigators could not determine the exact origin of the fire. At the time of the accident, the wind at the airport was reported as being from 280 degrees at 11 knots, with gusts reaching 21 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-01-25 Stinson 108-3 accident near Sanford, ME?

An aircraft was destroyed by fire on the ground after an unsuccessful attempt to start the engine resulted in smoke and subsequent flames.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-01-25 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N6234M, at Sanford, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine fire for undetermined reasons during start-up.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040129X00124. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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