Incident Overview
During a pre-departure hold on the taxiway, air traffic control personnel notified the pilot that the aircraft appeared to be on fire. In response, the pilot shut down the engine and exited the aircraft. The fire developed but remained largely confined to the engine compartment, where it was promptly extinguished by the local fire department.
Post-Incident Inspection
An examination of the aircraft revealed fuel stains on the belly skin panels located aft of the firewall and in line with the electric boost pump, indicating a fuel leak that had occurred prior to the fire. Additionally, inspection of the muffler showed it had been blown open, allowing exhaust gases to enter the engine compartment.
Maintenance History
The last inspection of the aircraft had taken place approximately 101 flight hours before the fire incident.