Abstract: NOx formation in a fixed geometry burner is minimized during steady state operation of a gas turbine engine by burning homogenous gaseous fuel and air mixtures in successive combustion stages of controlled duration and temperature determined by fuel to air ratios proximate the lean limit for combustion. When combustion is substantially complete in each stage NOx, formation is further inhibited by quenching the combustion temperature with comparatively cool air or the lean mixture for the next successive stage.Nox formation is effectively minimized during acceleration by supplying fuel to the combustion stages in sufficiently rich mixtures to consume all the available oxygen and to effect comparatively cool combustion temperatures.