Casualties unknown

In-Flight Fire Discovered After Precautionary Landing (N414FB)

Midland, TX, US

On March 19, 2004, a Cessna 414 (registration N414FB) operated by Frank A. Blankenbeckler was involved in an aviation accident near Midland, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The in-flight wing fire for undetermined reasons. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot with 3,000 flight hours experienced fuel flow indication issues after takeoff, returned for a precautionary landing, and encountered control stiffness and braking problems. Post-landing inspection revealed a small in-flight fire in the right wing; cause undetermined.

Incident Overview

A pilot with 3,000 hours of flight experience reported that after takeoff, the fuel flow indication was not working properly. The pilot chose to return to the airport for a precautionary landing.

Flight and Emergency Actions

During the approach to the airport, the nose landing gear indication light did not illuminate, prompting the performance of an emergency gear extension procedure. As the airplane continued toward the airport, the throttle, mixture, and propeller controls for the right engine became "very stiff, almost immoveable." During the landing roll, the pilot noted that "braking on the right side was minimal."

Post-Landing Investigation

After landing, further investigation revealed that a small in-flight fire had occurred in the right wing. The reason for the in-flight fire was undetermined.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040408X00427. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.