The airplane was destroyed by fire after landing about 1748 Pacific time. Visual conditions prevailed. The private pilot received minor injuries; the passenger received serious injuries. The pilot later reported that within minutes following takeoff on the two flights preceding the accident flight, he had experienced smoke in the cockpit and promptly landed. The accident flight followed repairs to his airplane. Within minutes after takeoff, he observed smoke in the cabin and saw flames near his feet. He returned to the airport and landed. The passenger exited the airplane before it rolled to a stop, and the pilot followed shortly thereafter.
