He Stopped The Airplane, And Noticed Smoke Coming From The Underside

Location: Larned, KS Accident Number: CEN21LA129
Date & Time: February 5, 2021, 12:00 Local Registration: N115FP
Aircraft: COLUMBIA AIRCRAFT MFG LC42-550FG Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On February 5, 2021, about 1200 central standard time, a Columbia LC42-550FG airplane, N115FP, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at the Pawnee County Airport (LQR), Larned, Kansas. The private pilot and one pilot-rated passenger were not injured. The flight was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

The pilot (who was the owner of the airplane), reported that the purpose of the flight was to transport the pilot-rated passenger to pick up an airplane at a nearby airport. The pilot commenced a takeoff on runway 35 at LQR, and the airplane did not get airborne, so he stopped the airplane. The pilot reported that the engine was operating normally, and normal takeoff acceleration was achieved. After 10 minutes, he decided to attempt a takeoff on the reciprocal runway (17), since the winds were from 270° at 14 knots, gusting to 19 knots. After attaining normal takeoff acceleration, the airplane did not become airborne. He stopped the airplane, and noticed smoke coming from the underside of the airplane. Both he and his passenger exited the airplane, and he went to get a fire extinguisher from a nearby FBO. Upon returning with the fire extinguisher, the pilot attempted to use the extinguisher on the wheels and brakes, but the extinguisher did not function. He then obtained another fire extinguisher from the FBO and returned to the airplane. By this time, fire damaged the wheel assemblies and progressed to the left wing, resulting in substantial damage to the underside and spar of the wing.

Initial examination of both brake and wheel assemblies showed severe fire damage. Both brake and wheel assemblies were found to be mechanically intact and did not show any anomalies other than the fire damage. The parking brake was found not engaged. Flight control continuity was confirmed from the cockpit to all flight control surfaces.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov