Date: August 25th, 2024
Location: Antalya International Airport (AYT), Turkey
Aircraft: Airbus A321-200neo, registration G-SUNB
Operator: Jet2
Flight Number: LS984
Route: Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV) to Manchester International Airport (MAN)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On August 25th, 2024, Jet2 Flight LS984, an Airbus A321-200neo en route from Milas–Bodrum Airport to Manchester, was forced to divert shortly after departure due to an engine failure. After taking off from Bodrum’s Runway 10L at 02:38 local time, the left-hand LEAP-1A engine emitted loud bangs and visible flames. The crew promptly shut down the affected engine and declared an emergency.
The aircraft climbed to 9,000 feet, circling Bodrum Airport multiple times for approximately 40 minutes before deciding to divert to Antalya International Airport for operational and safety considerations. After climbing to FL140 en route to Antalya, the aircraft landed safely on Runway 36C at 04:03 local time.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff and Engine Failure:
• Shortly after departing Bodrum, the left-hand engine began emitting flames and loud noises, prompting an immediate engine shutdown.
2. Circling Bodrum:
• The aircraft circled at 9,000 feet for 40 minutes to assess the situation and decide the safest course of action.
3. Diversion to Antalya:
• The crew opted to divert to Antalya due to its longer runways and robust emergency response infrastructure.
4. Landing at Antalya:
• The aircraft landed safely at 04:03 local time, nearly 90 minutes after departure, with no reported injuries among passengers or crew.
Aircraft Details
The Airbus A321-200neo involved, registration G-SUNB, is one of Jet2’s newest additions to its fleet, delivered in March 2023. Equipped with CFMI LEAP-1A32 engines, the aircraft is configured in an all-economy layout with 232 seats. Known for its efficiency and lower per-seat emissions, the A321neo has been a cornerstone of Jet2’s fleet renewal program.
Initial Findings
1. Engine Malfunction:
• Eyewitness reports and passenger accounts indicate that the left-hand engine emitted flames and sparks, with some passengers describing the engine as “exploding” multiple times.
2. Passenger Experience:
• Passengers were accommodated in Antalya hotels overnight before being flown to Manchester on a replacement aircraft.
3. Aircraft Status:
• The occurrence aircraft remained grounded in Antalya for more than 50 hours post-landing for inspection and potential repair.
Safety Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection and Maintenance:
• Thorough inspection of the affected LEAP-1A engine and evaluation of potential contributing factors, such as manufacturing defects or operational stresses.
2. Crew Training:
• Continued emphasis on emergency response training, including engine shutdown procedures and safe diversions.
3. Passenger Communication:
• Enhanced protocols for keeping passengers informed during in-flight emergencies to mitigate anxiety and ensure cooperation.
Impact and Aftermath
• Operational Disruptions:
• The diversion led to delays and logistical challenges, requiring passenger accommodations and rebooking.
• Fleet Implications:
• As part of Jet2’s modern fleet, the A321neo’s performance under duress will be closely analyzed to refine operational and maintenance protocols.
• Investigation Continuation:
• Jet2 and relevant aviation authorities are conducting an in-depth investigation to determine the root cause of the engine failure.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
