On December 29, 1970, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N5967C) operated by Air Libya was involved in an aviation accident near Sarir, Libya during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine fire occurred during the takeoff roll for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft experienced an engine fire during its takeoff roll, forcing the pilot to abort the procedure and resulting in the loss of the airframe.
What happened
During the initial stages of a takeoff roll, smoke began to fill both the cockpit and the passenger cabin. In response to the developing situation, the pilot executed an emergency procedure to abandon the takeoff.
The aircraft was brought to a complete stop on the runway. Following the stoppage, all six occupants successfully evacuated the cabin. Despite the successful evacuation, the aircraft was subsequently destroyed by fire.
Findings
Investigations into the incident suggest that an engine caught fire while the aircraft was accelerating for takeoff. The specific reason for the ignition of the engine remains unknown.
Probable cause
An engine fire occurred during the takeoff roll for undetermined reasons.