What happened
Following takeoff, the pilot of the Cessna (type not specified in source) noticed that the fuel flow indication was not functioning correctly. To ensure safety, the pilot elected to return to the airport for a precautionary landing.
During the approach phase, the nose landing gear indication light failed to illuminate, prompting the crew to perform the emergency gear extension procedure. As the aircraft continued its descent toward the airport, the pilot observed that the throttle, mixture, and propeller controls for the right engine became extremely stiff and nearly impossible to move.
Upon completing the landing roll, the pilot noted that braking effectiveness on the right side was minimal. Following the landing, a subsequent investigation identified that a small in-flight fire had occurred within the right wing of the aircraft.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft following the event revealed evidence of the fire located in the right wing area. This fire was linked to the mechanical stiffness observed in the engine controls and the degradation of braking performance during the landing roll.