What happened
On April 19, 2018, a Cessna 182 arrived at Radom Airport (EPRA) from Masłów (EPKA) to pick up passengers for a subsequent flight to Lubin (EPLU). During taxiing toward the holding point for runway 25 via taxiway F, the pilot encountered strong crosswinds blowing from the left. To maintain the taxi direction, the pilot frequently applied the right brake, maintaining a taxi speed of approximately 15 to 20 knots.
As the aircraft approached the turn onto the runway threshold, the pilot felt a significant jolt, which was initially attributed to a wind gust. After receiving clearance for takeoff, the pilot began the takeoff roll. At that moment, smoke was detected in the cabin, and the pilot observed smoke and flames emanating from beneath the right wheel fairing. The pilot immediately declared a fire, requested emergency services, and directed all passengers to evacuate the aircraft. The airport fire brigade arrived shortly after and extinguished the fire. During the firefighting operations, the right tire burst. No injuries were reported among the pilot or passengers.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the aircraft and consulted with the maintenance organization responsible for the aircraft's service. The investigation focused on the origin of the fire and the condition of the landing gear components. Analysis of the scene and the physical evidence indicated that the fire originated from accumulated grass within the wheel fairing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was high temperatures in the braking system caused by prolonged braking during taxiing in strong crosswinds.
- This heat ignited a large amount of accumulated grass trapped within the right wheel fairing.
- The tire remained largely undamaged prior to the fire, suggesting the ignition source was the organic debris rather than a direct tire failure.
- Strong crosswinds during the taxi phase contributed to the necessity of frequent brake application, leading to the overheating.