Date: 27th November 2024
Location: Matecaña International Airport, Pereira, Colombia
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200, registration HK-5407
Operator: Avianca
Flight Number: AV-9418
Route: Pereira to Bogotá, Colombia
Passengers and Crew: 164 passengers and 6 crew
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 27th November 2024, Avianca Flight AV-9418, an Airbus A320-200 operating from Pereira to Bogotá, rejected takeoff at high speed after the crew detected a fire in the left-hand engine (CFM56). The aircraft, traveling at approximately 100 knots over ground, was brought to a safe stop on Runway 26.
Following the rejection, the crew initiated an emergency evacuation via the right-hand slides. Emergency services responded promptly and extinguished the fire. All passengers and crew evacuated safely, with no reported injuries.
Aircraft and Crew Information
Aircraft
The Airbus A320-200 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft widely used in short- to medium-haul operations. Its engines, CFM56-5B series, are equipped with fire detection and suppression systems designed to mitigate in-flight and ground fire risks.
Crew
The flight was staffed with six experienced crew members, including two flight deck crew and four cabin crew. The crew executed the rejected takeoff and subsequent evacuation in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff Roll:
• The aircraft was accelerating for departure from Runway 26 at Matecaña International Airport.
• At approximately 100 knots, the crew received a fire warning for the left-hand engine.
2. Rejected Takeoff:
• The captain initiated a high-speed rejected takeoff, reducing thrust and applying maximum braking.
• The aircraft came to a controlled stop on the runway.
3. Evacuation:
• The crew commanded an emergency evacuation using the right-hand emergency slides to avoid the affected engine.
• All passengers and crew evacuated safely.
4. Fire Suppression:
• Emergency services responded promptly and extinguished the fire in the left-hand engine.
5. Post-Incident Actions:
• The runway was temporarily closed for inspections and cleanup.
• Passengers were provided with alternative travel arrangements.
Initial Investigation Findings
Colombia’s Aeronautical Authority initiated an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings include:
1. Engine Fire:
• The fire originated in the left-hand engine (CFM56) during the takeoff roll.
• The cause of the fire is under investigation, with initial focus on a possible fuel leak or compressor failure.
2. Crew Response:
• The crew’s decision to reject takeoff was timely and aligned with Airbus Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for engine fire warnings.
3. Evacuation:
• The evacuation was conducted efficiently, with passengers directed away from the affected engine to minimize risk.
4. Emergency Services:
• The fire was extinguished promptly, preventing further damage to the aircraft.
Potential Risks and Outcomes
1. High-Speed Rejected Takeoff:
• The high-speed rejection posed risks such as tyre bursts, brake overheating, and runway overrun, which were mitigated by the crew’s precise handling.
2. Engine Damage:
• Fire damage to the left-hand engine may require extensive repairs or replacement, impacting the airline’s operational schedule.
3. Passenger Safety:
• Rapid evacuation reduced potential risks from fire spread or secondary incidents.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection and Maintenance:
• Conduct a detailed inspection of the CFM56 engine to identify and address the root cause of the fire.
• Enhance monitoring for potential fuel system anomalies and compressor failures.
2. Training Enhancements:
• Reinforce rejected takeoff and evacuation procedures in crew training programs to ensure prompt and effective responses.
3. Emergency Services Coordination:
• Strengthen coordination between flight crews and airport emergency services to optimize response times.
4. Passenger Safety Protocols:
• Review and refine passenger briefing materials to emphasize evacuation procedures in emergencies.
5. Industry Sharing:
• Share findings with CFM56 operators and Airbus operators globally to enhance awareness and prevention of similar incidents.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident underscores the critical importance of swift crew decision-making and coordination during emergencies. The crew’s prompt actions ensured the safety of all occupants, preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.
The findings will likely contribute to refinements in engine maintenance protocols, crew training programs, and emergency response coordination, bolstering overall aviation safety standards.
Disclaimer
If you are the rightful owner of the photo and wish it to be taken down, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
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.
