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Casualties unknown

Hung Start and Engine Fire During Pushback Following APU Failure (N146AP)

Las Vegas, NV, US

On June 28, 1987, a British Aerospace BAE-146-100 (registration N146AP) operated by Pacific Southwest Airlines Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Las Vegas, NV. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During pushback, the APU tripped, causing loss of electrical power to the #4 engine starter. This resulted in a hung start at approximately 25% N2. Fuel continued to burn within the engine compartment. The crew discharged the fire extinguisher and ordered an evacuation. The fire terminated shortly after the evacuation began.

Event Description

While the aircraft was being pushed back from the gate, the crew initiated the start sequence for the #4 engine. During this process, the auxiliary power unit (APU), which supplies electrical power to the engine starter, tripped off the line. The loss of electrical power to the starter prevented the engine from being motored, leading to a hung start at approximately 25% N2 (fan speed). As a result, pooled fuel continued to burn within the engine compartment.

Crew Response

The crew was alerted to the fire condition and promptly discharged the #4 engine fire extinguisher. They also ordered an immediate evacuation of the aircraft.

Outcome

Shortly after the commencement of the evacuation, the fire terminated. No further information is available regarding the extent of damage or any injuries.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jun 1987 British Aerospace BAE-146-100 accident near Las Vegas, NV?

During pushback, the APU tripped, causing loss of electrical power to the #4 engine starter. This resulted in a hung start at approximately 25% N2. Fuel continued to burn within the engine compartment. The crew discharged the fire extinguisher and ordered an evacuation. The fire terminated shortly after the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jun 1987 involved a British Aerospace BAE-146-100, registration N146AP, operated by Pacific Southwest Airlines Inc, at Las Vegas, NV.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31332. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.