Date: 12th December 2024
Location: Over Atlantic Ocean, 120 nautical miles east of Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina
Aircraft: Boeing 737-800, registration LV-GFQ
Operator: Aerolíneas Argentinas
Flight Number: AR-1879
Route: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego to Buenos Aires Aeroparque, Buenos Aires
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 12th December 2024, Aerolíneas Argentinas flight AR-1879 was cruising at FL370 over the Atlantic Ocean when smoke was reported in the cabin. The flight was enroute from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires Aeroparque. Approximately 120 nautical miles east of Comodoro Rivadavia, the crew elected to divert to the nearest suitable airport as a precautionary measure.
The aircraft landed safely on runway 07 at Comodoro Rivadavia Airport about 30 minutes after the diversion decision. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
The aircraft remained grounded in Comodoro Rivadavia for approximately 26.5 hours before it resumed service.
Initial Findings
1. Source of Smoke:
• The exact source of the cabin smoke has not been disclosed, but possibilities include electrical components, galley equipment, or external contaminants.
2. Crew Response:
• The crew acted promptly, diverting to the nearest suitable airport as per safety protocols.
3. Passenger Safety:
• Passengers were not evacuated via slides, suggesting the smoke was contained and posed no immediate danger.
4. Aircraft Status:
• After inspection and maintenance, the aircraft was deemed airworthy and returned to service.
Potential Contributing Factors
1. Electrical or Mechanical Fault:
• Electrical malfunctions, such as wiring issues or faulty cabin systems, are a common cause of smoke in the cabin.
2. Environmental Conditions:
• External factors, such as contaminants entering the cabin through the air conditioning or bleed air system, could also explain the event.
Safety Recommendations
1. Thorough Inspection:
• Conduct a detailed inspection of electrical and air conditioning systems to identify and rectify the source of smoke.
2. Crew Training:
• Regular training for cabin crew and flight crew on managing in-flight smoke and maintaining passenger calm during diversions.
3. Passenger Communication:
• Ensure clear and consistent communication with passengers during diversions to mitigate panic or confusion.
Safety Lessons
This incident underscores the importance of prompt decision-making by flight crews during inflight emergencies. The successful diversion and absence of injuries highlight the effectiveness of Aerolíneas Argentinas’ safety protocols.
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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.
