Smoke from APU Inlet Triggers Emergency Evacuation

Casualties unknown • Flushing, NY, US

A passenger sustained a fractured foot during an emergency evacuation after smoke filled the cabin due to a broken hydraulic line near the auxiliary power unit.

What happened

Following landing, the flight crew initiated the start sequence for the airplane's auxiliary power unit (APU) while the aircraft remained on the ramp. Approximately thirty seconds into the operation, smoke began to accumulate within the cabin interior. In response to the developing situation, the captain directed an immediate emergency evacuation. The crew deployed all four evacuation slides, which operated as designed. During the egress process, one passenger sustained a fractured bone in her right foot.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the source of the smoke. Investigators identified a broken hydraulic line within the vicinity of the APU inlet. This failure allowed hydraulic fluid to leak and accumulate in the area surrounding the APU intake, leading to the observed cabin contamination.

Probable cause

A broken hydraulic line that permitted hydraulic fluid to accumulate near the auxiliary power unit inlet, resulting in smoke entering the cabin.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-11-09 Mcdonnell Douglas MD-82 accident near Flushing, NY?

A passenger sustained a fractured foot during an emergency evacuation after smoke filled the cabin due to a broken hydraulic line near the auxiliary power unit.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-11-09 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas MD-82, registration N452AA, operated by American Airlines Inc, at Flushing, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A broken hydraulic line that permitted hydraulic fluid to accumulate near the auxiliary power unit inlet, resulting in smoke entering the cabin.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021118X05480. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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