Emergency Procedures

Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First

FAA Ref: FAA-S-ACS-6C Area IX Task C (Systems and Equipment Malfunctions)

Scenario & Physics Summary

An engine compartment fire is usually well developed by the time you notice it. Unless the flight manual says otherwise, the first step is to shut off the fuel supply to the engine, and not to restart it if the flames go out (Airplane Flying Handbook).

Interactive 3D Visual Plates & Scenario Media

Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First Plate 1

Plate 1: Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First

Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First Plate 2

Plate 2: Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First

Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First Plate 3

Plate 3: Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First

Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First Plate 4

Plate 4: Engine Fire in Flight: Shut Off the Fuel First

Aerodynamic & Operational Physics

A fire starts when a flammable substance such as fuel, oil or hydraulic fluid contacts a hot surface, through a failed engine part, a defective induction or exhaust system, a broken line, or a maintenance error.
Indications are smoke or flames from the cowling area, or discoloration, bubbling or melting of the cowling skin when flames and smoke are not visible.
First step unless the AFM/POH directs otherwise: mixture to idle cut-off and the fuel selector valve OFF. Leave the ignition ON to use up fuel left in the lines, which may starve the fire.
A fuel-fed fire shows bright orange flames; an oil-fed fire shows thick black smoke, and the pilot should consider stopping the propeller so the engine-driven pump stops feeding the fire.

FAA Exam Gotcha Alert

Exam Trap: Do not switch off the electrical master by reflex. Unless the fire is electrical or a crash landing is imminent, switching it off removes the panel radios and the transponder return that ATC needs to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions & Exam Explanations

What is the first step for an engine fire in flight?

Unless the AFM/POH directs otherwise, shut off the fuel supply: mixture control to idle cut-off and the fuel selector valve to OFF. Leave the ignition on to use the fuel remaining in the lines, which may let the fire die naturally.

Should you try to restart the engine after the flames go out?

No. The Airplane Flying Handbook says that if the flames are snuffed out, no attempt should be made to restart the engine.

How do you tell an oil-fed fire from a fuel-fed fire?

A fuel-fed fire produces bright orange flames. An oil-fed fire produces thick black smoke, and the pilot should consider stopping propeller rotation so the engine-driven oil pump stops feeding the fire.

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