He Attempted To Restart The Engine Three Times. On The Third Restart Attempt, He Noticed That Flames Were Coming Out From The Right Wing Near The Fuel Cap

Location: Sparta, Illinois Accident Number: CEN25LA090
Date & Time: February 1, 2025, 13:50 Local Registration: N88LE
Aircraft: Rutan Long-EZ Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Fire/smoke (non-impact) Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that he taxied to the runway and performed an engine runup. During the runup, the pilot noticed that one of the magnetos was not operating properly, so he started to taxi back to his hangar. While taxing back to the hangar, he smelled burning wire insulation, and shortly after the engine stopped. He attempted to restart the engine three times. On the third restart attempt, he noticed that flames were coming out from the right wing near the fuel cap. He immediately exited the airplane and called the fire department. The airplane was destroyed by the fire.

Due to the damage caused by the fire, an examination of the airplane components to determine the source of the fire was not possible.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- An onboard fire for unknown reasons.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov