Date: 1st December 2024
Location: Brussels Airport, Belgium
Aircraft: Airbus A319-100, registration OO-SSB
Operator: Brussels Airlines
Flight Number: SN-2712
Route: Geneva, Switzerland, to Brussels, Belgium
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 1st December 2024, Brussels Airlines flight SN-2712, an Airbus A319-100, encountered a locked flaps indication while on final approach to Brussels’ Runway 25L. The crew, unable to extend the flaps beyond position 1, initiated a go-around and climbed to 5,000 feet. After troubleshooting the issue, the flight crew conducted a second approach and safely landed on Runway 25L approximately 20 minutes later.
The aircraft remained grounded at Brussels for inspection and maintenance and has been on the ground for over 11 hours since the incident.
Aircraft Information
The Airbus A319-100 is a popular narrow-body airliner, widely used for short to medium-haul operations. Its wing flap system allows for incremental deployment to enhance lift and reduce approach speeds, with positions ranging from 1 (minimum) to full (maximum).
Sequence of Events
1. Approach Phase:
• While on final approach to Runway 25L, the crew selected flaps from position 1 to 2.
• A locked flaps indication prevented further extension of the flaps, resulting in limited aerodynamic performance adjustments.
2. Go-Around:
• The crew performed a go-around as a precautionary measure.
• The aircraft climbed to 5,000 feet and entered a holding pattern to troubleshoot the issue.
3. Second Approach and Landing:
• After assessing the situation, the crew decided to proceed for a second approach.
• The aircraft landed safely on Runway 25L at a slightly higher speed due to the limited flap configuration.
4. Post-Landing Actions:
• Maintenance teams began inspecting the aircraft to determine the cause of the locked flaps indication.
Initial Findings
Possible Causes of Locked Flaps Indication
1. Hydraulic Malfunction:
• The flap system relies on hydraulic actuators for movement. A failure in the hydraulic system may have prevented proper operation.
2. Mechanical Obstruction:
• Debris, wear, or damage within the flap tracks or actuators could have led to restricted movement.
3. Sensor Failure:
• Faulty position sensors may have sent incorrect data to the flight control computers, triggering a locked flaps warning.
4. Control Software Issue:
• Software anomalies in the flight management or control system could have caused erroneous indications.
Maintenance Actions
Inspection and maintenance at Brussels Airport included:
• Examination of the flap tracks, actuators, and locking mechanisms.
• Hydraulic system diagnostics to identify leaks or pressure anomalies.
• Testing of flap position sensors and associated electronic systems.
• Software diagnostics to check for irregularities in the flight control systems.
Safety Risks
1. Higher Landing Speed:
• Limited flap deployment results in higher approach and landing speeds, requiring greater braking effort and runway length.
2. Crew Workload:
• Managing a non-standard landing configuration increases crew workload during critical flight phases.
3. Potential Overshoot:
• Inadequate lift or increased landing speed may pose a risk of runway overshoot.
Recommendations
1. Routine Hydraulic System Checks:
• Ensure regular inspections of hydraulic lines and actuators during scheduled maintenance.
2. Sensor Calibration:
• Verify the accuracy of flap position sensors and address potential calibration issues.
3. Crew Training:
• Emphasize simulator training for handling flap anomalies during approach and landing.
4. Data Monitoring:
• Analyze fleet-wide data to identify recurring trends or systemic issues related to flap operation.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident highlights the critical role of robust maintenance procedures and crew training in ensuring safe operations during system anomalies. The successful resolution demonstrates the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures and maintaining effective communication between flight crews and ground teams.
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.
