On 6 September 2006, a Boeing Co 717-200 (717) aircraft,
registered VH-NXI, departed Perth, WA on a scheduled passenger
service to Karratha. Approximately 100 NM (185 km) from Karratha,
there was an automated thrust reduction and the aircraft commenced
the descent into Karratha.
Shortly after leaving the top of descent, the flight crew
observed that the right engine had failed. During the completion of
the relevant non-normal checklist items, the crew noticed that the
main fuel switch for the right engine was selected to OFF. The
engine failure checklist was carried out and a successful restart
made as the aircraft continued to Karratha.
An examination of the throttle module and main fuel switches by
the aircraft operator found no fault with their operation.
As a result of this incident, the aircraft operator issued a
Safety Alert to all of its 717 operating crew advising of the
possibility of selecting the aircraft's main fuel switches to ON
without their correctly engaging the locking detent. That alert
also warned flight crew of the possibility of inadvertent in-flight
selection of the switches to OFF by catching wristbands or long
sleeve shirt cuffs. In addition, flight crew were advised to not
pass technical manuals or other similar items across the throttle
quadrant in the vicinity of the main fuel switches.
The operator is evaluating the possible fitment of a physical
guard to protect the main fuel switches against their inadvertent
unlock from the ON position.
