A B747-400 Captain rejected the takeoff at less than 60 KTS when the configuration warning horn sounded because the stabilizer trim was not at the correct setting.
Synopsis
A B747-400 Captain rejected the takeoff at less than 60 KTS when the configuration warning horn sounded because the stabilizer trim was not at the correct setting.
Narrative
Pilot flying was the Captain. We were cleared for takeoff. As the throttles advanced to takeoff thrust; we received a configuration warning caution. The Captain immediately rejected. Once we cleared the runway we identified the problem as the trim being set at three degree's vice 6.6 per the FMS. The Before Start Checklist was completed in two phases: 1) down to the line; and 2) below the line. The below the line was accomplished during push back and I obviously did not double check the trim setting as the checklist was being read. As a result of this event; one might consider not having the First Officer read the After Start Checklist until the trim has been set. The AOM has both the Captain and First Officer doing their flows with the First Officer reading the checklist when he is finished with his flow. If memory serves me right; on the 75/76; the First Officer did not start reading the checklist until he saw the Captain cancel the warnings/cautions; the last item on the Captain's flow. Not to abrogate responsibility for what occurred; but this might prevent it from happening in the future.
Second reporter narrative
A low speed rejected takeoff due to configuration warning. Trim was found not to be in the takeoff range. At pushback there was a power disruption that resulted in the loss of initialization information; as well as some of the entered performance data. This event occurred during the below the line portion of the Before Start Checklist. After power was reestablished; the pushback was completed and the engines were started. The After Start Checklist was completed; flaps set to 10; taxi clearance; before takeoff checklist completed; followed with clearance from Tower for takeoff on 14L. After runway was verified and lining up on the centerline; the power was advanced; the configuration warning was sounded and the takeoff was rejected at less than 60 KTS. Tower was notified; the runway was vacated; and no assistance was required. The error in the trim setting was immediately found and corrected. The flight proceeded without further delay. I believe that the power disruption was the cause in the missed trim setting. The Before Takeoff Checklist had become interrupted; and obviously not completed properly. In retrospect the checklist should have been started over from the top.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.