What happened
During a ground operation involving an engine start sequence, the number 3 engine experienced a severe malfunction that resulted in a torching event. This incident ignited an internal fire within the engine's tailcone area. The sudden appearance of flames caused significant alarm among the passengers on board.
Upon witnessing the fire, several passengers panicked and initiated an evacuation without authorization. Between 30 and 50 individuals exited the aircraft through the left-side doors, specifically exits L3 and L4. The evacuation process began at exit L3, which was unattended at the time. A flight attendant, observing the situation, mistakenly believed that an official emergency evacuation had been authorized by the crew. Consequently, the flight attendant opened exit L4, allowing additional passengers to leave the aircraft.
The evacuation was eventually stopped and brought under control. Initially, the flight crew was unaware of both the engine fire and the ongoing passenger evacuation. Once they became aware of the tailcone fire, the pilots motored the engine in an attempt to extinguish the flames. The crew believed the situation was manageable and did not request emergency assistance.
However, pilots from nearby aircraft observed the incident and alerted Air Traffic Control (ATC). ATC subsequently notified Emergency Response personnel, who responded to the site. During the incident, engines number 1 and 2 remained running, creating a hazardous environment for both emergency responders and evacuees. These engines were later shut down.