AMB analysis

Approach, July-August, 2005 by Jon Styers

Postflight analysis by the AMB revealed that a major fire occurred in the ECS compartment. In the immediate vicinity of the heat-source center are various wiring harnesses, hydraulic lines, bleed-air ducting, and an APU fuel line. As the fire grew, damage spread forward and possibly into the aircraft tunnel. Further investigation detected a hydraulic leak, which could have been atomized under pressure, resulting in a mist that can be ignited at temperatures well below its flash point. The atomized fluid was ignited by heat from the hot No. 1 bleed-air duct, resulting in an uncontrollable fire in the ECS compartment.

Lt. Styers was the VS-24 aviation safety officer. He now flies with VT-10.