Beech 1900
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
During cruise flight; approximately halfway to ZZZ; I noticed a burning smell and visually detected a small amount of smoke propagating from between the glare shield and instrument bezel just above the pilot side attitude indicator. All systems continued to function normally. The smoke lasted a few minutes and did not affect my physiological state negatively (besides the unpleasant odor); or my ability to complete the flight safely to the intended destination; which at the time was also the nearest viable airport. I never felt my safety was threatened or that continuing the flight to the destination would threaten other airborne aircraft; airport personnel; passengers; or property. Upon landing all systems continued to function normally through shutdown and the smoke did not return. I contacted dispatch and related the incident. Maintenance dispatched a [Company] mechanic to ZZZ to troubleshoot. The mechanic confirmed the burning odor; but could not reproduce the problem or pinpoint the cause. After consulting with our Head of Maintenance and Chief Pilot it was determined to ferry the plane back to [a different airport]; DVFR; to continue with a more thorough inspection.
The reporter stated that never before has he encountered this kind of incident in this type of aircraft. The reporter stated that they were flying in lots of moisture and he felt this may have contributed to the problem. The reporter also stated that Maintenance completely disassembled the front of the instrument panel and were unable to find anything that could have contributed to the burning smell. The reporter stated that he has flown this aircraft several times and has not been able to duplicate the problem. The reporter stated it seemed like it was just an anomaly that this occurred because he hasn't seen it since. The reporter stated that because this is an older aircraft it may also be part of the problem.
Beach 1900 Captain reported a burning smell and smoke coming from behind the glare shield.