Incident Overview
A certificated private pilot was conducting a flight in a single-engine airplane when, approximately 15 minutes after departure, the engine began to run rough during level cruise flight. In response, the pilot elected to make a precautionary landing on a remote lake. After landing, as the aircraft taxied toward shore, flames erupted from under the engine cowling.
Fire and Abandonment
The fire rapidly spread throughout the cabin of the airplane. The pilot was unable to bring the fire under control and was eventually forced to abandon the aircraft, swimming to shore to escape.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the airplane at the accident scene. The inspector reported that the fire totally consumed the main fuselage, the engine nacelle, and the inboard portions of both wings. The engine later fell into the water but was subsequently recovered. Due to the substantial extent of the fire damage, the inspector was not able to discern the origin of the fire.
Probable Cause
Not specified.