What happened
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot of the aircraft detected an odor inside the cockpit. Within 30 seconds to one minute of noticing the smell, smoke began to fill the cockpit area. In response to the developing situation, the pilot performed the emergency checklist, which involved shutting off all electrical power to the aircraft.
The pilot decided to return to the airport for a landing. Following the touchdown, the pilot successfully taxied the aircraft onto the taxiway. The pilot then exited the aircraft to find assistance to help extinguish the fire.
Upon returning to the aircraft, the pilot discovered that the fire had spread significantly, moving through the cabin and into the empennage area. Although the fire was eventually extinguished, the nose compartment and the cabin area were destroyed by the flames. The pilot was not injured during the event.