If an engine fails to ignite during start, what should be done?

• A. Continue the start until light-off is observed
• B. Abort the start if no light-off by a set parameter; follow ignition and fuel flow procedures and prepare for an abnormal event or alternate
• C. Immediately shut down and inspect
• D. Increase fuel flow

Answer: (B)

A safe and controlled engine start hinges on obtaining ignition (light-off) within a defined time. If ignition does not occur by that parameter, the appropriate action is to abort the start. This prevents continuing a start with no ignition, which can lead to a fuel-rich condition, a hot or flooded engine, and potential compressor damage. After aborting, you follow the ignition and fuel flow procedures to reset and reattempt if instructed, and you prepare for an abnormal event or an alternate power or engine scenario so you’re ready to handle the situation safely.

Continuing the start in the absence of light-off would keep pumping fuel into a non-igniting engine, increasing risk of damage. Immediately shutting down and inspecting without following the abort and re-check steps can skip necessary checks and procedures, and increasing fuel flow would worsen the risk of a bad start.