Flight Instructor Noticed A Flashing Red Turbine Inlet Temperature (TIT) Warning Light

Location: Crescent City, CA Accident Number: WPR21LA098
Date & Time: January 31, 2021, 11:44 Local Registration: N291FR
Aircraft: Cessna T182T Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On January 31, 2021, about 1144 Pacific standard time, a Cessna T182T airplane, N291FR, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Crescent City, California. The flight instructor and pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.

During the flight, the flight instructor noticed a flashing red turbine inlet temperature (TIT) warning light. He enrichened the fuel mixture resulting in the TIT to return to a normal value. Shortly after, the engine began to run rough. The flight instructor switched to the left magneto and the engine shut down.

He then switched to the right magneto and the engine restarted and ran rough. He switched back to both magnetos and the engine continued to run rough. The flight instructor then adjusted the mixture and turned the auxiliary fuel pump on. Despite his actions, he was unable to get the engine to maintain power and he initiated a landing to an open field. The pilot subsequently landed in marshland and the airplane nosed over. The airplane was recovered and will be examined.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov