FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

On the Boeing 777, how is the engine fire extinguishing agent discharged?

1. By opening a valve in the engine compartment

2. By pulling the fire handle and rotating it to the mechanic stop

3. By activating a manual lever

4. By pressing a button on the cockpit control panel

The correct answer is: By pulling the fire handle and rotating it to the mechanic stop

The correct process for discharging the engine fire extinguishing agent on the Boeing 777 involves pulling the fire handle and rotating it to the mechanic stop. This action is a crucial step in the aircraft's fire suppression system, designed to ensure that the extinguishing agent is effectively released into the engine compartment to control any potential fire. When the fire handle is pulled, it serves a dual purpose: it not only activates the extinguishing system but also signals the aircraft's fire detection and extinguishing system to initiate a series of protective measures. Rotating the handle to the mechanic stop further secures the action, allowing for the proper discharge of the fire extinguishing agent. This mechanism is essential in providing tactile and visual feedback to the crew, assuring them that the system is armed and ready to extinguish the fire. In contrast, other methods mentioned, such as opening a valve in the engine compartment or using a manual lever, do not reflect the specific operational procedures employed on the Boeing 777, which emphasize a centralized and controlled response to an emergency fire situation. Pressing a button on the cockpit control panel is also not the designated method for this particular aircraft model, as the fire handle operation is tailored to ensure maximum safety and efficiency in a critical situation.