Casualties unknown

1994-03-04: Aerospatiale ATR-72 (N253AT) — Simmons Airlines — Dfw Airport, TX

Dfw Airport, TX, US

On March 4, 1994, an Aerospatiale ATR-72 (registration N253AT) operated by Simmons Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Dfw Airport, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A blockage of the number one engine manifold by coking deposits, which resulted in a fuel spill and subsequent fire within the nacelle. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A number one engine fire warning light illuminated while the aircraft was taxiing, prompting the crew to initiate an emergency shutdown procedure.

What happened

The incident occurred while the aircraft was taxiing on the ground. During this phase of operation, the crew observed that the number one engine fire warning light had illuminated. In response to this indication, both the pilot and the co-pilot immediately initiated an engine shutdown procedure. They proceeded to complete the appropriate emergency checklists and actions required for such a situation.

The investigation

Following the event, a physical examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the root cause of the warning. The inspection revealed that the manifold associated with the number one engine was obstructed. Specifically, the blockage was caused by coking deposits within the component.

Findings

The obstruction led to a fuel spill, which subsequently ignited and caused a fire within the nacelle area. This mechanical failure explains the activation of the fire warning system during the taxi phase.

Probable cause

A blockage of the number one engine manifold by coking deposits, which resulted in a fuel spill and subsequent fire within the nacelle.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00895. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.