Incident Overview
During a delayed right engine start prior to taking the active runway for departure, the flight crew neglected to turn the ignition switch on. When the crew attempted to start the engine a second time, an overtemp condition occurred, resulting in a tailpipe fire. Tower personnel observed flames emerging from the exhaust stack and alerted the flight crew.
Crew Response and Evacuation
The flight crew initially reported experiencing a 'hot start' but believed, based on cockpit indications, that the fire had been extinguished. However, the flight crew of an airplane positioned behind the jet noted the fire persisted in the exhaust. Control tower personnel confirmed the engine was still on fire. The captain then ordered an evacuation using the two doors on the left side of the airplane. All passengers exited the aircraft within 20 seconds of slide deployment.
Passenger Injury
During the evacuation, one passenger slid down the aft door slide past awaiting crew members and twisted her right ankle. Subsequent medical reports and X-rays revealed a hairline fracture of a bone in her right ankle.
Inspection and Return to Service
A post-incident inspection of the ignition and fuel systems for the right engine found no defects. The airplane was subsequently returned to service.