Probable cause
The explosion and subsequent fire in the airplane for undetermined reasons because an examination of the burned airplane could not identify any preaccident anomolies.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was performing pretakeoff cockpit checks at the end of the runway when an explosion under his seat propelled his head into the ceiling. He saw flames inside the airplane and exited through the cabin door. The unoccupied airplane moved forward and was completely engulfed in flames when it stopped moving, about 400 feet from the place the explosion occurred. Firefighters arrived about 10 minutes later and put out the fire. The airplane was substantially damaged by the fire. An examination of the wreckage did not disclose any preaccident malfunctions or anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The reason for the explosion and fire could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA574 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 17, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Perryton, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Perryton Ochiltree County Arpt (PYX)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-31-310
- N-number
- N46TB
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.