Incident Overview
A pilot executed a precautionary landing in a cornfield after detecting abnormal heat from the autopilot system. The aircraft was substantially damaged during the landing, which was performed with the landing gear fully retracted. There was no evidence of fire or smoke damage to the airplane.
Pilot's Report
The pilot reported that while descending from cruise altitude, he noticed the autopilot descend button had become progressively warmer. He turned off the autopilot and observed that the panel around it was also very hot. Concerned about a possible electrical fire, he turned off the master switch and began considering landing at the nearest airport. Within about a minute, he smelled something hot or burning, leading him to immediately select a field for landing. He stated he did not see any smoke.
Landing and Location
The decision to perform a precautionary landing was made between 2,500 and 3,000 feet mean sea level. The airplane was found in a cornfield approximately 4 nautical miles northeast of the nearest airport, which had two hard-surfaced runways. The pilot landed with the landing gear fully retracted, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the accident airplane revealed no evidence of fire or thermal damage. The autopilot unit and system were tested and no discrepancies were identified.