What happened
During the takeoff phase, the pilot reported smelling smoke and experiencing a loss of engine power as the aircraft lifted off the ground. Because there was still sufficient runway remaining, the pilot performed an immediate landing back on the runway.
The aircraft failed to stop within the runway boundaries, continuing approximately 100 to 200 feet beyond the end of the pavement before coming to a rest in tall grass. Following the excursion, flames erupted from the left side of the engine compartment. The fire spread rapidly, and the aircraft was completely engulfed by flames within 30 seconds.
The investigation
The intensity of the fire was noted by the salvage professional responsible for recovering the aircraft. The heat was sufficient to melt or burn away all components within the engine compartment area, leaving only steel components intact.