What happened
During a repositioning flight from Rochester, New York, to Huntsville, Alabama, the pilot of an air taxi aircraft diverted from the original flight plan. The flight, which included a scheduled refueling stop in Louisville, Kentucky, was rerouted toward Lexington due to emerging mechanical issues with one of the engines. While approaching Cynthiana, Kentucky, the pilot decided to land at the local airport.
During the downwind leg of the landing pattern, the pilot observed smoke or discoloration near the left engine cowling. As the aircraft transitioned to the base leg, flames became visible from the left engine. In response, the pilot attempted to shut down the engine and feather the propeller; however, the fire extinguisher system was not deployed. During the landing roll, the aircraft veered off the runway to the right, striking an airport windsock stand, a utility pole, and a hangar.
Findings
Post-accident investigations determined that the left engine experienced a fire originating near the accessory section, though the exact fuel source was not pinpointed. Crucially, investigators found that the pilot had failed to properly feather the propeller or shut off the fuel supply for the affected engine. Additionally, the left braking system became non-functional due to heat damage from the fire. The sequence of events concluded with a collision with airport infrastructure following the loss of directional control.