No fatalities

In-Flight Cockpit Fire Prompts Forced Landing in Farm Field (N812PC)

Round Lake, IL, US

On June 1, 1992, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N812PC) operated by Bitton, Daniel A. was involved in an aviation accident near Round Lake, IL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY PROCEDURES, AND THE FIRE IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR REASONS UNDETERMINED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

About five minutes after takeoff, smoke appeared from the right side of the instrument panel. The pilot performed a forced landing in an open field, with flames present before touchdown. The pilot exited with minor injuries.

Incident Overview

Approximately five minutes after departure, while in cruise flight, smoke emanated from the right side of the instrument panel. The pilot initiated a forced landing in an open farm field. Prior to touchdown, flames were observed in the cockpit. Following the landing, the pilot evacuated the airplane and sustained minor injuries. The aircraft continued to burn after the pilot exited.

Post-Accident Examination

A subsequent examination of the aircraft did not identify the source of the fire. The pilot described the origin as an electrical fire; however, during the emergency procedures, no attempt was made to disengage the master switch.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Jun 1992 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Round Lake, IL?

About five minutes after takeoff, smoke appeared from the right side of the instrument panel. The pilot performed a forced landing in an open field, with flames present before touchdown. The pilot exited with minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 Jun 1992 Piper PA-32R-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Jun 1992 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N812PC, operated by Bitton, Daniel A., at Round Lake, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY PROCEDURES, AND THE FIRE IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR REASONS UNDETERMINED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14802. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.