Primary finding
Probable cause
An in-flight bird strike which resulted in an engine compartment fire that ultimately destroyed the airplane.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was on approach to land when he saw birds in his peripheral vision and then heard and felt them impact his airplane. The pilot landed, taxied to the runup pad, and shut down the engine because he smelled something burning. After exiting the airplane, he saw smoke. The pilot used the on-board fire extinguisher in an attempt to extinguish the engine compartment fire but was unsuccessful, and the fire subsequently destroyed the airplane.