Date: 3rd December 2024
Location: Atlantic Ocean, near Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8, registration N780AV
Operator: Avianca
Flight Number: AV-121
Route: London Heathrow (UK) to Bogotá (Colombia)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 3rd December 2024, Avianca flight AV-121, a Boeing 787-8 enroute from London Heathrow to Bogotá, experienced a technical issue with its right-hand engine (Rolls-Royce Trent 1000) while cruising at FL380 over the Atlantic Ocean. The crew made the decision to turn around and divert to Ponta Delgada, Azores. During the diversion, the engine was shut down approximately 120 nautical miles south of the airport. The aircraft subsequently descended to lower altitudes, entered holding patterns at FL100 and FL070, and landed safely at Ponta Delgada’s runway 30 about 2 hours and 25 minutes after the initial turn.
Aircraft Information
The Boeing 787-8 is a long-haul, wide-body twin-engine aircraft, renowned for its fuel efficiency and advanced systems. The Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine powers many 787 aircraft, but it has faced challenges in recent years, including durability and reliability issues.
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The aircraft was at FL380, approximately 300nm southwest of Ponta Delgada, when the crew identified an issue with the right-hand engine.
• The crew initiated a turn back towards Ponta Delgada and climbed to FL390 to optimise performance on one operational engine.
2. Engine Shutdown:
• About 120nm south of Ponta Delgada, the crew shut down the affected engine as a precautionary measure, following standard operating procedures.
3. Descent and Holding:
• The aircraft descended to FL260 initially, then to FL100 and FL070 while entering holding patterns to manage fuel and prepare for landing.
4. Landing:
• The aircraft performed a safe landing on Ponta Delgada’s runway 30, assisted by emergency services on standby.
Initial Findings
Engine Issues
• The Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine has been associated with technical challenges, including premature wear, which could lead to in-flight shutdowns.
• The nature of the issue with the right-hand engine remains under investigation, but early indications suggest a precautionary shutdown due to performance anomalies.
Flight Crew Actions
• The crew’s prompt decision to divert and manage the aircraft’s altitude and speed ensured a controlled and safe outcome.
• Adherence to standard procedures, including engine shutdown protocols, was instrumental in mitigating risks.
Safety Risks
1. Single-Engine Operations:
• Operating on one engine increases crew workload and reduces performance margins, particularly over remote areas such as the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Fuel Management:
• Extended holding patterns at lower altitudes can lead to higher fuel consumption, requiring careful monitoring.
3. Passenger Safety:
• In-flight engine shutdowns can increase passenger anxiety, necessitating clear communication from the crew.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection and Maintenance:
• Conduct a detailed inspection of the right-hand Trent 1000 engine, focusing on known issues such as compressor durability and thermal performance.
2. Flight Crew Training:
• Reinforce training for single-engine operations and emergency diversions over remote areas.
3. Fleet Review:
• Evaluate the maintenance and operational performance of Trent 1000 engines across the Avianca fleet to identify potential trends or risks.
4. Passenger Communication:
• Enhance protocols for informing passengers during in-flight emergencies to ensure clarity and reduce anxiety.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the importance of proactive engine monitoring, efficient crew decision-making, and robust maintenance protocols to address potential issues with critical systems. The safe landing demonstrates the effectiveness of standard operating procedures in managing complex scenarios.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts available at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
