This aircraft became either N889US (c/n 11358, delivered October 1991) or N894US (c/n 11379, delivered March 1992). Data show 11379 did have a number on the nose wheel door during test flights, making this 11358. Photographer unknown

One of the rewards of having full airport access is being there when a new aircraft is towed from the hangar while still in the stages of being made ready for service with Alliance Airlines. This airframe started life as N889US with US Air as N889US and finished life as P2-ANA with Air Niugini after a mercury spill rendered it totally unserviceable. Sadly the next step was the airport fire dump at Brisbane.

Unfortunately this aircraft ended its days on the Brisbane Airport fire dump. The aircraft suffered a mercury spill in the rear hold during service in P.N.G. and it was considered a total write-off. It returned to Brisbane and never flew again.