SkyDrill

Preflight check of the engine inlet duct

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 3 of 13 on Turbine Engines. ACS element AM.III.B.R3 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONPrior to starting a turbine engine, what must be inspected minutely to guard against foreign object damage?

  1. AThe exhaust cone, for nuts, bolts, and lock wire
  2. BThe oil tank filler neck, for loose shop towels
  3. CThe engine inlet ducts, for tools and hardware
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. The engine inlet ducts, for tools and hardware

  • A — incorrect Loose items in the exhaust are not drawn through the compressor; the inlet duct is the path by which objects enter and damage the engine.
  • B — incorrect Servicing points are checked during their own procedures, but the inspection aimed at foreign object damage covers the engine inlet ducts.
  • C — correct A minute inspection of the engine inlet ducts assures that items such as nuts, bolts, lock wire, or tools were not left there after work was performed.

BACKGROUND

Loose objects often enter an engine either accidentally or through carelessness. Foreign object damage, including items such as pencils, tools, and flashlights, can be drawn into the engine and damage the fan blades. A compressor rotor can be damaged beyond repair by tools left in the air intake, where they are drawn into the engine on subsequent starts. A simple guard against this is to check tools against a tool checklist after every job. Technicians are also warned not to carry any objects in their pockets when working around operational turbine engines.

STUDY TIP

Build the habit of a tool inventory plus an inlet duct sweep before every start. Empty your shirt pockets before approaching a running turbine engine.

KEY POINTS

  • Tools left in the air intake can damage a compressor rotor beyond repair on the next start.
  • Inspect engine inlet ducts minutely before start for nuts, bolts, lock wire, or tools.
  • Check tools against a tool checklist and carry nothing in pockets near running engines.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-32B ch10 "Causes of Blade Damage"
Practice the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) test →Timed 100-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON TURBINE ENGINES

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-32B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Powerplant, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.