 CAPTAIN GLEN ENGEBRETSON
On 01 November 2003, Crew 3 of 407 Maritime Patrol Squadron was preparing to start engines to embark on a seven hour Maritime Patrol. Just before the Pre-Start Check, Captain Glen Engebretson, the Crew Tactical Navigator, queried the flight deck as to what system they had just turned on. He further clarified by stating that whatever switch had just been selected had created an abnormal vibration in the tactical compartment. With all of the noise and vibration associated with the Aurora, he was adamant that this particular vibration was abnormal. Upon further investigation it was determined that the vibration could only be felt when the #3 Tank Fuel Boost pump was selected on, and that the vibration was predominantly localized at his flight station. A technician was called on board the aircraft and in the course of investigation it was determined that the #3 Fuel Boost pump impellor had come loose which would have inevitably led to a failure of the Fuel Boost Pump and compromised engine performance.
Captain Engebretson is a Navigator who is not familiar with the Aurora Aircraft main system maintenance requirements. However, his attention to detail coupled with his decisive actions and persistence, demonstrated his outstanding professionalism. His exemplary vigilance was instrumental in preventing a potentially hazardous in-flight emergency that could have developed into a disastrous situation.
Captain Glen Engebretson serves with 407 Maritime Patrol Squadron, 19 Wing Comox.
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