N22220

On March 29, 2006, about 1150 eastern standard time, an amateur-built Martin Rans S-7 Courier, N22220, piloted by a private pilot, was destroyed by fire following a forced landing subsequent to a loss of engine power. The airplane was on initial climb after takeoff from runway 27 (2,500 feet by 60 feet, asphalt), at the Ray Community Airport, Ray, Michigan, when the loss of power occurred. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The pilot was not injured. The local flight was originating at the time the accident occurred.

The pilot reported that after performing a preflight examination and run-up of the airplane, he started his takeoff. He stated that when the airplane was about 25 feet above ground level, the engine quit. He stated that he landed the airplane and then exited and walked around the airplane. He stated that when he came to the nose area of the airplane, flames were emanating from the cowl. He stated that he moved to a safe distance and the airplane was subsequently consumed by the fire.

Subsequent examination of the airplane failed to reveal the source of the fire or the reason for the loss of engine power.