On September 21, 1992, an IAI 1124 Westwind (registration SE-DLK) operated by Air Sweden was involved in an aviation accident near Umeå, Sweden during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The low pressure compressor in the right engine disintegrated during the takeoff roll due to fatigue cracks, leading to debris scattering that damaged fuel and hydraulic lines, causing an engine fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During takeoff at Umeå Airport, the crew aborted after a fire was reported. All seven evacuated; aircraft damaged beyond repair. Investigation found right engine low pressure compressor disintegration due to fatigue cracks.
Incident During Takeoff
During the takeoff roll at Umeå Airport, when the aircraft reached a speed of 50 knots, the crew heard a noise. Simultaneously, the tower controller informed the crew that the aircraft was on fire. The crew immediately aborted the takeoff and initiated an emergency braking procedure. The aircraft came to a stop on the runway, and all seven occupants evacuated within 15 seconds. The fire was subsequently extinguished, but the aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the low pressure compressor in the right engine disintegrated during the takeoff roll. Debris from the disintegration scattered within the engine, damaging fuel and hydraulic lines. The engine caught fire and was destroyed. The low pressure compressor failure was attributed to fatigue cracks that had developed in the component.
Probable cause
The low pressure compressor in the right engine disintegrated during the takeoff roll due to fatigue cracks, leading to debris scattering that damaged fuel and hydraulic lines, causing an engine fire.