Incident Overview
On 11 December 1997 at 0645 UTC, a Beech E90 KingAir, registration G-WELL, was at Southampton Airport, Hampshire, for a private flight. The commander, aged 39, held a Commercial Pilot's Licence with Instrument Rating; his flying experience was not recorded. Two crew and three passengers were on board.
Sequence of Events
After engine start, the captain completed the after start checks and switched on the cabin lights. An electrical burning smell became apparent, and smoke was observed emanating from the cup holder area immediately below the forward edge of the emergency exit door. The crew requested a fire vehicle via the tower, shut down both engines, and evacuated the aircraft.
Damage and Findings
Minor damage to wiring and trim was reported. Investigation revealed that the aircraft trim had been removed from around the emergency exit door. Damaged lighting wiring was found shorting to earth. The damage had apparently been caused by the wires becoming trapped in the emergency door hinge.
Injuries and Actions
No injuries were reported among crew or passengers. The aircraft was evacuated without incident.