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Taxiing Fire After Refueling Attributed to Missing Brake Components (N679DM)

Richmond, VA, US

On April 25, 2007, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N679DM) operated by Jean Mckeever was involved in an aviation accident near Richmond, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The missing shim insulator and main gear axle spacer, which allowed frictional heat buildup during taxi. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During taxi after refueling, a fire ignited near the right main landing gear of an airplane. The pilot shut down the engine and occupants evacuated. An annual inspection had been completed the previous day, and heavy-duty brakes were installed but missing insulators led to heat buildup.

Incident Overview

An airplane experienced a fire originating near the right main landing gear while taxiing after refueling. In response, the pilot shut down the engine, and all occupants safely exited the aircraft.

Maintenance History

The airplane had undergone an annual inspection the day prior to the incident. As part of this inspection, heavy-duty brakes were installed. During installation, a shim insulator and a main gear axle spacer were required but were not installed.

Findings

Examination revealed that both the shim insulator and the main gear axle spacer were missing. Their absence resulted in a frictional buildup of heat during taxiing, which initiated the fire.

Probable cause

The missing shim insulator and main gear axle spacer, which allowed frictional heat buildup during taxi.
Maintenance error

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Apr 2007 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Richmond, VA?

During taxi after refueling, a fire ignited near the right main landing gear of an airplane. The pilot shut down the engine and occupants evacuated. An annual inspection had been completed the previous day, and heavy-duty brakes were installed but missing insulators led to heat buildup.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Apr 2007 Piper PA-32-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Apr 2007 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N679DM, operated by Jean Mckeever, at Richmond, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The missing shim insulator and main gear axle spacer, which allowed frictional heat buildup during taxi.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070510X00543. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.