What happened
On March 16, 1998, at 15:25, a privately operated Cobra 201 A was conducting a local flight after departing from Royan aerodrome. While cruising at 1,500 feet, the front passenger noticed a significant fuel leak manifesting near the instrument panel. In response to the emergency, the pilot reduced engine power and notified the Royan tower of the intention to divert to Pons aerodrome.
During the final approach, the pilot shut off the main fuel supply. The aircraft landed successfully at AD Pons and cleared the runway at the midpoint, at which point the engine ceased operation. Following the landing, the crew and the aerodrome's chief mechanic attempted to stop the leak, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The aircraft was left at the aerodrome.
Approximately ninety minutes later, the pilot returned to the aircraft to secure the canopy. Upon opening the canopy, the aircraft immediately caught fire. Although fire extinguishers from the aerodrome platform were deployed, the fire resulted in the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the fuel system to identify the source of the initial leak. The investigation established that the leak originated from the fuel flow regulation system. The pilot noted that a similar failure involving the same component had occurred two years prior to this event.
Regarding the fire itself, the investigation was unable to determine the exact ignition source due to the severe condition of the wreckage following the fire.