2011-12 · NASA ASRS report 984646
A B737-400 number two engine PMC illuminated after engine start. The crew took off after referencing the FOM Supplemental Normal Procedures but the engine was unable to develop rated power so they returned to the departure airport after declaring an emergency.
After a normal departure from the gate area and established on the Taxiway X for a Runway XXR departure; the number one engine was started. The engine was on speed when a (PMC INOP) caution light illuminated on the number one engine. The crew referenced the QRH for PMC INOP; then referenced the PMC OFF Takeoff and Climb Procedure in the Supplemental Normal Procedures as directed. Upon completion of the procedures review; the crew elected to depart using Supplemental Normal Procedures. On departure climbout; the number two engine was unable to provide full climb thrust. Crew elected to return to the departure airport and landed without incident. At the gate the crew reviewed Flight Operations Manual; Pilot Handbook; and QRH a second time and determined an error in the execution of company policy had been made. A recent write-up of the PMC in the maintenance log prior to flight; caused the crew to mistakenly believe the aircraft was in an MEL status upon dispatch; when in actuality it was an informational write-up only. The crew had an MEL/CDL item requiring an amended flight release. Crew should review FOM Flight Release Policy; when an amended Flight release is required.
After delayed start of left engine; taxi flow revealed ENG light and PMC INOP light illuminated. QRH and supplemental checklist accomplished. Number one for takeoff cleared for takeoff with traffic on final. Neglected to contact dispatch and maintenance for MEL prior to takeoff due to task loading. Unable to attain FMC required climb power on Number 2 engine. Elected to return to the departure; declared an emergency; contacted Dispatch; Operations; and made a normal precautionary landing. Taxied to gate and accomplished maintenance log entry. Self induced time pressure. PMC was written up on previous flight as PMC light coming on and then extinguished. Maintenance signed off as unable to duplicate. First Officer had same PMC non-normal on a past flight and stated that he was familiar with the procedure.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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