What happened
A local test flight intended to verify radio systems ended in an emergency landing following a mechanical failure. The pilot departed from Jackson-Reynolds Airport to conduct routine checks of the onboard communication equipment.
During the initial climb phase, immediately after leaving the runway, the right engine of the aircraft ignited. In response to the fire, the pilot performed an emergency wheels-up landing in a swampy area located close to the departure airport. The impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair. The pilot sustained slight injuries during the incident.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary factor in the accident was that the right engine caught fire during the takeoff sequence, though the specific origin of the fire remains undetermined.