During an engine fire on start, what initial action must a pilot take?

Prepare for your Helicopter PPL Checkride Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your pilot examination!

In the event of an engine fire during start, the appropriate initial action for a pilot is to shut off fuel immediately. This action helps to minimize the risk of the fire spreading and can help extinguish the flames by starving the fire of fuel, which is a key aspect of fire triangle theory—removing one of the three elements needed for a fire to sustain itself.

Continuing to crank the engine, as suggested in the answer chosen, would actually be counterproductive. Cranking the engine can introduce more air and fuel into an already dangerous situation, potentially exacerbating the fire. The risk of ignition and further spread of flames increases with the continued supply of fuel and air during cranking.

While the other options like landing the helicopter or evacuating the aircraft may ultimately be necessary, they do not address the immediate needs of handling an engine fire on start, which focuses on controlling and extinguishing the fire as a first step.

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