Emergency Evacuation Following Smoke in Cockpit and Cabin

Casualties unknown • Jamaica, NY, US

An aircraft underwent an emergency evacuation after smoke entered the cockpit and cabin following engine start-up, resulting in multiple passenger injuries.

What happened

Following pushback from the gate, both engines of the aircraft were started, and pneumatic power was transitioned from the auxiliary power unit to the engines. Shortly after this transition, smoke became visible within both the cockpit and the cabin. In response to the smoke, the flightcrew donned smoke masks, and the captain ordered an emergency evacuation.

During the evacuation process, 2 passengers sustained serious injuries, while 32 passengers received minor injuries.

The investigation

The investigation determined that the source of the smoke was a failure of a hydraulic check valve. This failure allowed hydraulic fluid to enter the engine pneumatic duct. Additionally, investigators noted that the 3R door evacuation slide failed to deploy during the event. Further examination revealed that the door had not fully opened; however, when the door was manually pushed during the investigation, it opened completely, allowing the slide to deploy and inflate.

Probable cause

The failure of a hydraulic check valve which allowed hydraulic fluid to enter the engine pneumatic duct, causing smoke in the cockpit and cabin.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-02-20 Airbus Industrie A-300B4-605R accident near Jamaica, NY?

An aircraft underwent an emergency evacuation after smoke entered the cockpit and cabin following engine start-up, resulting in multiple passenger injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-02-20 involved a Airbus Industrie A-300B4-605R, registration N11060, at Jamaica, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of a hydraulic check valve which allowed hydraulic fluid to enter the engine pneumatic duct, causing smoke in the cockpit and cabin.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05312. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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