Date: 8th December 2024
Location: En route from Manchester, UK, to Faro, Portugal
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200N, registration G-UZLS
Operator: EasyJet
Flight Number: U2-2215
Route: Manchester (MAN) to Faro (FAO)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 8th December 2024, EasyJet flight U2-2215, an Airbus A320neo en route from Manchester, UK, to Faro, Portugal, experienced a problem with one of its Leap engines while cruising at FL360. The crew assessed the situation and determined the issue had resolved itself, as reported to passengers. The aircraft later climbed to FL390 and landed safely at Faro Airport approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes after departure.
Following the incident, the aircraft remained grounded in Faro for further inspections. A replacement Airbus A319-100 operated the return leg to Manchester, departing with a delay of approximately 7.5 hours.
Aircraft Information
• Type: Airbus A320-200N (Neo)
• Engine: CFM Leap-1A
• Registration: G-UZLS
The A320neo is equipped with advanced fuel-efficient engines, such as the CFM Leap-1A, known for reduced emissions and noise. However, complex systems may experience operational issues requiring inflight evaluation.
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The aircraft was cruising at FL360 when an issue with one of the Leap engines occurred.
• The crew monitored the situation and noted the fault appeared to clear itself.
2. Altitude Adjustment:
• After verifying no immediate risk, the aircraft climbed to FL390 to continue its journey.
3. Landing:
• The flight landed safely at Faro Airport without further incident.
4. Grounding and Replacement Aircraft:
• The occurrence aircraft was grounded at Faro for maintenance and inspection.
• A replacement Airbus A319-100 (G-EZBW) was dispatched to complete the return flight to Manchester.
Initial Findings
• Engine Fault:
• The issue appeared transient, as no further warnings were observed during the flight. However, the fault prompted post-flight maintenance inspections.
• Passenger Experience:
• Passengers were informed by the captain that the engine fault had resolved itself and the flight could continue safely.
• Aircraft Status:
• As of the latest update, the aircraft remains grounded in Faro, undergoing detailed maintenance and diagnostics.
Safety Risks
1. Engine Reliability:
• Any in-flight engine issue poses a potential risk to flight safety, even if transient.
2. Crew Workload:
• Managing unexpected engine problems increases crew workload, especially during critical flight phases.
3. Operational Disruptions:
• Grounding the aircraft resulted in delays for subsequent flights, affecting passenger schedules.
Recommendations
1. Thorough Engine Diagnostics:
• Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the Leap engine, including sensor systems and fault logs.
2. Crew Communication Training:
• Ensure clear and transparent communication with passengers during technical irregularities.
3. Engine Health Monitoring:
• Use advanced predictive maintenance tools to identify potential issues before flight operations.
4. Data Sharing:
• Report the incident to engine manufacturers for analysis and potential updates to maintenance procedures.
Safety Lessons
This incident demonstrates the importance of robust engine monitoring systems and crew decision-making when handling unexpected technical issues. Effective communication and a cautious approach ensured passenger safety and operational continuity.
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.
