Accident Details
On a medical evacuation flight between La Romaine Airport and Sept-Îles Airport in Quebec, a Beech 200 (registration C-FSKQ, serial number BB-99) operated by SkyJet M.G. Inc. experienced a cabin fire. The aircraft carried 2 pilots and 4 passengers (3 medical personnel and 1 patient on a stretcher). The flight was conducted under instrument flight rules. At approximately 1239 Eastern Standard Time, while on approach to Runway 09, about 5 nautical miles from the threshold, a passenger reported smoke in the cabin.
Flight and Crew
The flight crew was certified and qualified for the flight. The first officer was at the controls. The crew responded by switching off the fluorescent cabin lights, the ordinance sign lights, and both engine air bleed systems. The smoke appeared to dissipate. The first officer handed control to the captain and went to the cabin, observing grey smoke. They did not declare an emergency. The aircraft landed safely and taxied to the company's facilities.
Emergency Response
After stopping, smoke reappeared. The crew could not initially locate the source. The patient was removed with help from ambulance attendants. The first officer called a flight service specialist via cell phone and then dialed 911. Emergency services were alerted. The fire became visible from outside on the top left of the fuselage. The crew discharged three portable fire extinguishers. When municipal firefighters arrived, the fire was under control. There were no injuries. The aircraft sustained significant damage.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found that the fire originated from arcing between the connector and electrical power supply of panel LH/4. The arcing produced overheating that ignited a strip of fabric, which then spread to melt and burn an air outlet. Four materials failed self-extinguishing tests. The crew did not follow the emergency procedures for smoke and fume elimination, which include donning oxygen masks and isolating electrical systems. The checklist did not mention pulling the cabin lighting circuit breaker. The crew shut off non-essential electrical equipment but did not complete all steps. The manufacturer, Beech Aircraft Corporation, had issued a press release about possible arcing between connectors and power supplies of fluorescent lights.
Probable Cause
Arcing between the connector and electrical power supply of panel LH/4 produced overheating that ignited the fire.