Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was practicing emergency landings when smoke began billowing into the cockpit. The CFI also noticed significant heat near her legs. Suspecting a possible fire on the other side of the firewall, she decided to land immediately in a corn field. The corn was approximately 12 feet tall, and the aircraft nosed over onto its back during the landing.
Examination Findings
Post-incident examination revealed no evidence of smoke, heat, or fire other than specific electrical damage. The wire lead from the electrical bus bar to a radio was found burned and melted at the end. Similarly, the jumper wire between the bus bars was also burned and melted. A shop owner at the airport stated that the jumper wire was undersized and became overloaded, causing the insulation to burn.
Additionally, the cabin heater valve was found in the "on" position, which would allow engine heat to enter the cockpit near the floor level. This may explain the heat felt by the CFI.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft was engaged in routine emergency landing practice when the cockpit filled with smoke. The CFI, experiencing heat near her legs, decided to land in a corn field rather than continue to an airport. The tall corn caused the aircraft to nose over upon touchdown. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or occupants were provided in the source.
No Injuries Reported
The source does not mention any injuries to the CFI or any other individuals involved in the incident.