Date: 2nd December 2024
Location: Chattanooga Airport, Tennessee, USA
Aircraft: Canadair CRJ-900, registration N131EV
Operator: Endeavor Air on behalf of Delta Airlines
Flight Number: DL-5276
Route: New York LaGuardia, NY to Chattanooga, TN
Occupants: 59 (Passengers and Crew)
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 2nd December 2024, Endeavor Air flight DL-5276, a Canadair CRJ-900 operating from New York LaGuardia to Chattanooga, encountered a hydraulic failure while on final approach to Chattanooga’s Runway 02. The flight crew initiated a go-around, entered a holding pattern for approximately 20 minutes to assess the situation, and subsequently performed a second approach. The aircraft landed safely but was unable to taxi due to a loss of nose wheel steering, requiring assistance to clear the runway.
The aircraft remained grounded in Chattanooga for 11.5 hours for maintenance and inspection.
Aircraft Information
The CRJ-900 is a twin-engine regional jet designed for short to medium-haul flights. Its hydraulic systems power critical functions, including flight controls, landing gear, and nose wheel steering. The aircraft is equipped with redundancy in its hydraulic systems to maintain essential operations during partial failures.
Sequence of Events
1. Final Approach:
• The aircraft was on an ILS approach to Runway 02 at Chattanooga Airport when the crew identified a hydraulic failure and initiated a go-around.
2. Holding Pattern:
• The crew entered a hold for approximately 20 minutes to assess the hydraulic issue and consult procedures.
3. Second Approach and Landing:
• The aircraft executed a successful second approach to Runway 02 and landed safely.
• Post-landing, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of nose wheel steering and came to a stop on the runway.
4. Runway Clearance:
• Ground crews assisted in towing the aircraft to the apron for further inspection.
Initial Findings
Potential Causes of Hydraulic Failure
1. Hydraulic Fluid Leak:
• A loss of hydraulic fluid due to a leak in lines or fittings could lead to a failure in one of the systems.
2. Component Failure:
• A failure in critical components such as pumps, actuators, or reservoirs could disrupt hydraulic operations.
3. Electrical or Control System Fault:
• Faults in the systems controlling hydraulic components could impair functionality.
Maintenance Actions
1. Inspection and Repairs:
• Maintenance crews conducted a thorough inspection of the hydraulic system, focusing on the nose wheel steering and associated components.
2. Hydraulic Fluid Replenishment:
• Hydraulic reservoirs were checked and replenished to operational levels.
3. Functional Testing:
• Post-repair testing ensured system reliability before the aircraft’s return to service.
Safety Risks
1. Runway Incursion Risk:
• A disabled aircraft on the runway increases the risk of operational disruptions and potential incidents with other aircraft.
2. Reduced Redundancy:
• Hydraulic system failures compromise redundancy, increasing risks during critical phases of flight.
3. Operational Delays:
• Aircraft grounding for inspection and repair disrupts schedules and incurs operational costs.
Recommendations
1. Hydraulic System Monitoring:
• Implement enhanced inspections of hydraulic lines, fittings, and reservoirs during routine maintenance.
2. Crew Training:
• Reinforce training on hydraulic system failure protocols, including handling loss of nose wheel steering.
3. Data Analysis:
• Analyze fleet-wide hydraulic system performance to identify trends and preempt potential failures.
4. Ground Operations Coordination:
• Enhance procedures for rapidly clearing disabled aircraft to minimize runway occupancy time.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident underscores the importance of redundant hydraulic systems and crew proficiency in handling in-flight failures. The effective execution of procedures by the flight crew ensured a safe outcome. Regular maintenance and operational readiness are critical to minimizing risks associated with hydraulic system failures.
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.
