What happened
During a repositioning flight following a comprehensive avionics and fuel system upgrade, a multiengine airplane experienced a critical emergency. As the pilot approached the destination airport, a distress message was broadcast over the common traffic advisory frequency, reporting an engine failure and the presence of smoke inside the cockpit.
Observers on the ground and airport surveillance footage captured flames emerging from the aircraft's right wing. While attempting to maneuver toward the runway, the aircraft entered a right-rolling descent and struck the ground near the airport's perimeter fence. Following the impact, investigators noted that the propeller on the right engine was in a feathered position.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the right engine identified fire damage located behind the engine-driven fuel pump. The fire was intense enough to discolor the fuel pump and consume the fire sleeves on both the inlet and outlet hoses.
Investigators discovered that the fuel outlet hose, which connects the pump to the flow transducer, had become detached. While the specific reason for the loose connection remained undetermined, the evidence suggests that pressurized fuel escaped from the loose hose and ignited upon contact with the hot turbocharger, triggering the inflight fire.