Cessna TR182 N756EG accident near Davis, California

Probable cause

An in-flight fire during the initial takeoff climb for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, he conducted an uneventful engine run-up and taxi to the runway for departure. During the initial takeoff climb he observed smoke emanating from the instrument panel, followed by flames radiating from the rudder pedal area and followed by a partial loss of engine power. The airplane had enough altitude to clear the trees near the departure end of the runway; the pilot then made a forced landing on a tomato field. During the landing rollout, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. The fire subsequently destroyed the airplane.

The thermal damage to the engine’s accessories case and firewall suggests that the fire originated near the rear of the engine. However, destruction of the airframe precluded determination of the reason for the in-flight fire.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR22LA219 for the full record.