Date: 27th November 2024
Location: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Australia
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8, registration VH-VKH
Operator: Jetstar Airways
Flight Number: JQ-27
Route: Sydney, Australia, to Phuket, Thailand
Passengers and Crew: Not disclosed
Injuries: None
Summary of Events
On 27th November 2024, Jetstar Flight JQ-27, a Boeing 787-8 bound for Phuket, experienced tyre damage during departure from Sydney’s Runway 34L. Shortly after takeoff, the crew suspected a possible nose wheel issue and requested to level off at 5,000 feet to troubleshoot.
The aircraft entered a holding pattern while the crew assessed the situation. After completing checks, the crew decided to return to Sydney and performed a precautionary approach to Runway 34L. Tower controllers confirmed that all landing gear appeared deployed and aligned properly. The aircraft landed safely approximately 90 minutes after departure. Emergency services inspected the aircraft and discovered damage to one of the main gear tyres.
Aircraft and Crew Information
Aircraft
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a twin-engine, long-haul aircraft equipped with advanced avionics and safety systems. Its landing gear system features ten wheels distributed across the main and nose landing gears.
Crew
The crew, trained in managing in-flight abnormalities, handled the situation according to operational protocols, prioritizing safety and effective communication with air traffic control and emergency services.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff:
• Flight JQ-27 departed Sydney’s Runway 34L as scheduled.
• During the climb, the crew suspected an issue with the nose wheel.
2. Level-Off and Holding Pattern:
• At approximately 5,000 feet, the crew leveled off and entered a holding pattern to assess the situation.
• The crew reviewed system indications and sought confirmation of gear status.
3. Return to Sydney:
• After completing troubleshooting, the crew opted to return to Sydney for a precautionary landing.
• Tower controllers visually inspected the aircraft during its approach, confirming that all gear appeared to be down.
4. Landing and Inspection:
• The aircraft landed safely on Runway 34L, and emergency services escorted it to the apron.
• An inspection revealed that one main gear tyre had sustained damage during takeoff.
Initial Investigation Findings
Tyre Damage
• The damaged tyre was one of the ten wheels on the main landing gear.
• The airline attributed the damage to a mechanical failure during takeoff.
Landing Gear System
• No abnormalities were reported with the landing gear’s retraction or deployment mechanisms.
Environmental Factors
• There is no indication that runway surface conditions or foreign object debris contributed to the tyre damage.
Potential Risks and Consequences
1. Runway Departure Risks:
• A damaged tyre during takeoff could lead to impaired directional control or vibration, potentially escalating into a runway excursion.
2. Landing Gear Integrity:
• Prolonged operation on a damaged tyre increases stress on the landing gear assembly, potentially leading to secondary failures.
3. Passenger Safety:
• Tyre damage poses potential risks to passenger safety and confidence, particularly during critical phases of flight.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspections:
• Strengthen pre-flight inspection protocols to identify and address potential tyre defects or wear.
2. Runway Surface Monitoring:
• Conduct regular runway surface inspections to eliminate foreign object debris that could contribute to tyre damage.
3. Crew Training and Procedures:
• Reinforce training for managing in-flight landing gear abnormalities, including the decision-making process for precautionary landings.
4. Maintenance Checks:
• Review the aircraft’s maintenance history and conduct a thorough examination of the landing gear system to identify underlying mechanical issues.
5. Incident Reporting:
• Share findings with industry stakeholders to improve awareness and prevent similar occurrences.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident emphasizes the importance of robust pre-flight inspections and proactive decision-making by flight crews during in-flight anomalies. The crew’s adherence to safety protocols and effective communication with air traffic control ensured a safe resolution of the situation.
Findings from this investigation will contribute to improved maintenance practices, operational training, and airport safety protocols, reinforcing the aviation industry’s commitment to passenger safety.
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.
