What happened
During an engine start sequence, an engine fire was identified. Following the detection of the fire, the engine was shut down. However, the crew did not continue cranking the engine, a step that might have extinguished the flames before they became unmanageable. Furthermore, after the engine shutdown, the fuel shutoff valve remained open, failing to create a necessary barrier between the fuel tanks and the engine.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events following the fire detection and the subsequent actions taken by the crew. Investigators noted fire on the nose wheel area beneath the engine, suggesting the fire was likely fueled by a fluid. However, the physical condition of the aircraft and engine following the event was such that the specific origin of the fire and the initial reason for the engine failure could not be established.
Findings
- The failure to continue cranking the engine during the emergency procedure likely prevented the fire from being extinguished early.
- The fuel shutoff valve was not closed, which removed the barrier between the fuel supply and the engine.
- The omission of these two specific steps in the engine start emergency procedure increased the likelihood of the fire intensifying.