Avianca Boeing 787 Returns to Madrid After Windshield Crack During Climb

Madrid, Spain – On July 7th, 2024, an Avianca Boeing 787-8, registration N785AV, was forced to return to Madrid-Barajas Airport shortly after departure due to a cracked windshield. The aircraft was operating flight AV-17 from Madrid to Medellín, Colombia, when the incident occurred, prompting the crew to take immediate action to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew on board.

Incident Overview

The aircraft had departed from Madrid and was climbing through FL270 (approximately 27,000 feet) when the captain’s windshield developed a significant crack. Recognizing the potential risks associated with continuing the flight, the crew promptly decided to return to Madrid. The aircraft safely landed on runway 18R at Madrid-Barajas Airport about 80 minutes after departure.

Despite the alarming nature of the incident, the landing was executed without further complications, and there were no injuries reported among the passengers or crew.

Aftermath and Operational Impact

Following the incident, the flight to Medellín was canceled, and the aircraft has remained grounded at Madrid-Barajas Airport for further inspection and repairs. As of the latest reports, the Boeing 787-8 is still on the ground, approximately 46 hours after the return landing.

Windshield cracks, while rare, are taken very seriously in aviation due to the critical role these components play in maintaining cabin pressure and structural integrity at high altitudes. The decision to return to Madrid was a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

Investigation and Safety Procedures

Avianca and relevant aviation authorities are likely to conduct an investigation into the cause of the windshield crack. Such incidents can result from a variety of factors, including manufacturing defects, bird strikes, or extreme temperature changes. The findings from the investigation will be crucial in determining whether any specific maintenance actions or changes to operational procedures are required.

In the meantime, the grounding of the aircraft has led to operational disruptions, with the flight to Medellín being canceled and potentially impacting Avianca’s schedule. The airline will be focused on ensuring the aircraft is thoroughly inspected and repaired before it is cleared to return to service.

Conclusion

The incident involving Avianca flight AV-17 highlights the importance of swift decision-making by flight crews in response to in-flight emergencies. The crew’s prompt action to return to Madrid following the discovery of the cracked windshield ensured the safety of all on board.

As the investigation progresses, more details will likely emerge regarding the cause of the windshield crack. This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining and operating modern aircraft and the critical importance of safety protocols in addressing unforeseen technical issues during flight.