Incident Description
While initiating the left engine start sequence, the pilot detected smoke emanating from the left side of the left engine cowling. Simultaneously, flight line personnel approached the aircraft carrying a fire extinguisher and directed attention to the left wing, which had become engulfed in flames. The pilot promptly aborted the engine start procedure, deactivated the electrical power system, closed the fuel valves, and evacuated the airplane.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed that the left wing spar had sustained structural damage, and the left wing exhibited fire damage. Further investigation determined that the left wing fuel tank quantity transmitter had been leaking fuel, which likely contributed to the fire. No other causal factors were identified.