Date: 3rd September 2024
Location: Enroute to Chitre, Panama
Aircraft: Fokker 50, registration HP-1891PST
Operator: Air Panama
Flight Number: 7P-650
Route: Panama City to Chitre
Occupants: 15 passengers, 3 crew
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 3rd September 2024, Air Panama flight 7P-650, a Fokker 50 operating from Panama City to Chitre, landed at its destination without the aft door panel. The loss of the panel occurred during the flight, but no injuries were reported among the 15 passengers or 3 crew members. The aircraft remained on the ground for 5.5 hours in Chitre for inspection and repairs before performing the return flight to Panama City. Panama’s aviation authority, OFINVAA, initiated an investigation into the incident.
Aircraft Information
The Fokker 50 is a twin-turboprop regional aircraft widely used for short-haul operations. The aft door panel provides access to the rear baggage compartment and is designed with secure latching and locking mechanisms to prevent in-flight detachment.
Sequence of Events
1. Departure from Panama City:
• The aircraft departed from Panama City with no reported issues during boarding or pre-flight checks.
2. In-Flight Panel Separation:
• During the flight to Chitre, the aft door panel separated from the aircraft. The crew did not report any immediate indications of pressurization or structural issues during the flight.
3. Arrival in Chitre:
• The aircraft landed safely at Chitre Airport, where ground personnel discovered the missing aft door panel.
4. Post-Incident Actions:
• The aircraft was grounded for inspection and temporary repairs. It returned to service after 5.5 hours and successfully completed the return flight to Panama City.
Initial Findings
Potential Causes of Panel Separation
1. Latch Failure:
• A failure in the door latching mechanism may have allowed the panel to detach during flight.
2. Improper Securing of the Panel:
• Human error during pre-flight checks or baggage loading could have led to the panel not being properly secured.
3. Structural Fatigue or Material Failure:
• Aging components or stress-induced fatigue may have weakened the panel’s attachment points.
4. Environmental Factors:
• Vibrations, turbulence, or pressure changes during the flight could have contributed to the separation.
Maintenance Actions
• Inspection of Aft Door and Mechanisms:
• The latching and locking mechanisms were thoroughly examined for damage or wear.
• Structural Integrity Check:
• Engineers inspected the surrounding fuselage and attachment points for signs of stress or damage.
• Review of Maintenance Records:
• The aircraft’s maintenance history was analyzed to determine if prior issues with the door had been reported.
• Temporary Repairs:
• The door was temporarily repaired in Chitre to ensure safe operation for the return flight.
Safety Risks
1. In-Flight Debris Hazard:
• The separation of the panel posed a potential risk to people or property on the ground.
2. Loss of Pressurization:
• In pressurized aircraft, a missing door panel could lead to a dangerous cabin depressurization.
3. Structural Damage:
• The separation could have caused additional damage to the fuselage or adjacent components.
4. Passenger and Crew Safety:
• A similar incident occurring in-flight could lead to more severe outcomes in different circumstances.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Pre-Flight Checks:
• Reinforce procedures for inspecting and securing all panels and doors before departure.
2. Latch and Lock Maintenance:
• Implement routine checks and servicing of all door latches and locks, especially on aging aircraft.
3. Incident Reporting and Analysis:
• Use data from similar incidents to identify trends and improve design and maintenance protocols.
4. Passenger and Crew Communication:
• Provide clear guidance to crew on handling and reporting unusual in-flight occurrences related to structural components.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident underscores the importance of thorough pre-flight inspections and robust maintenance protocols for critical components like doors and panels. Ensuring the integrity of such systems is essential to maintaining passenger and crew safety during flight operations. The event also highlights the role of swift and effective ground handling and investigation in mitigating risks and preventing recurrence.
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.
