Incident Overview
An agricultural aircraft was destroyed by fire after executing a forced landing. The pilot reported that the engine lost power while he was returning home following an aerial application mission. The ensuing forced landing was performed as an autorotation downwind. After exiting the aircraft, the pilot observed an engine fire.
Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that the power loss occurred during the return leg of an aerial application flight. He maneuvered the aircraft for an autorotation landing, which was conducted downwind. Upon exiting the aircraft, he noticed the engine fire. The flames subsequently engulfed the aircraft and spread to the surrounding terrain.
Fire and Damage
The fire destroyed the aircraft and approximately two acres of range grass. The extent of the fire prevented a detailed post-crash examination of the engine and systems.
Investigation
FAA inspectors examined the wreckage but were unable to determine the cause of the engine power loss due to the extensive fire damage. No determination of the initiating event was possible.