Overview
• Operator: Brussels Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A320-200
• Registration: OO-SNJ
• Flight Number: SN-3772
• Route: Alicante (Spain) to Brussels (Belgium)
• Date: 27 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Injuries: None reported
• Damage: None reported
Incident Summary
Brussels Airlines flight SN-3772, operating an Airbus A320-200, was descending towards Brussels Airport when the crew reported a hydraulic system leak and a landing gear malfunction. Given the potential risks associated with landing gear operation failures, the crew elected to divert to Liege Airport as a precautionary measure.
The aircraft landed safely on runway 22L at Liege, and emergency services were on standby to assist if required. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise and Descent Phase
• The aircraft was descending towards Brussels Airport when the crew detected a hydraulic leak.
• The crew also encountered issues with the landing gear operation, prompting concern over potential retraction or extension failures.
2. Decision to Divert
• Due to the nature of the hydraulic problem, the flight crew decided to divert to Liege Airport, where a longer, less congested runway was available for a safer precautionary landing.
3. Landing and Inspection
• The aircraft landed safely on Liege’s runway 22L without further incident.
• Emergency services were prepared for a potential landing gear failure but were not required for immediate intervention.
4. Aircraft Status
• Following the safe landing, the aircraft was inspected by maintenance crews.
• The extent of the hydraulic system issue and gear malfunction remains under investigation.
Possible Causes and Investigation
• Hydraulic System Malfunction
• The A320 relies on multiple hydraulic systems to control landing gear, flaps, and braking functions.
• A hydraulic leak may lead to reduced pressure, affecting gear extension or retraction.
• Landing Gear Operation Failure
• If hydraulic fluid levels drop below operational limits, the landing gear may fail to extend properly, requiring manual deployment via an alternate gear extension system.
• The crew’s precautionary diversion to Liege suggests concerns over potential partial gear deployment.
• Flight Data Analysis
• Investigators will review flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) data to determine the exact cause of the hydraulic failure.
• Maintenance teams will conduct detailed inspections of hydraulic lines, actuators, and fluid reservoirs.
Regulatory and Airline Response
• Brussels Airlines Statement:
• The airline has acknowledged the incident, stating that the flight was diverted for safety reasons due to a hydraulic system issue.
• Belgian Aviation Authorities Investigation:
• Authorities will examine the aircraft’s maintenance history and system diagnostics to assess whether any previous warnings or anomalies were recorded.
Safety Considerations and Recommendations
• Hydraulic System Monitoring
• Pilots should be prepared for hydraulic failure scenarios, including manual gear extension procedures.
• Airlines should increase monitoring of hydraulic system performance and early warning indicators.
• Passenger Briefing During Emergencies
• In cases of potential gear malfunctions, cabin crew should brief passengers on possible emergency landing procedures.
• Aircraft Inspection Before Return to Service
• The aircraft will require a full hydraulic system assessment before being cleared for operations.
Aircraft Status and Next Steps
• The Brussels Airlines A320 remains grounded at Liege for further technical assessment.
• Engineers are investigating hydraulic system components and landing gear actuators.
• A return-to-service timeline will depend on maintenance findings.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 27 January 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
