Overview
• Operator: Air Arabia Maroc
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A320-200
• Registration: CN-NMR
• Flight Number: 3O-114
• Route: Brussels (BRU) to Tangier (TNG)
• Date: 21 February 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None reported
• Nature of Incident: Flap deployment failure resulting in abnormal landing conditions
Incident Summary
An Air Arabia Maroc Airbus A320-200, operating flight 3O-114 from Brussels to Tangier, experienced a flaps deployment failure while on approach to Tangier’s runway 28. The aircraft’s flaps became stuck at position 1, prompting the crew to execute a go-around procedure.
The aircraft subsequently completed a second approach to runway 28 and performed a safe landing, albeit at a higher-than-normal speed of approximately 160 knots ground speed.
The aircraft remained on the ground in Tangier for approximately 24 hours for maintenance and inspections before returning to operational service.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The aircraft departed Brussels (BRU) normally, with no technical anomalies reported during departure or cruise.
In-flight Occurrence:
• During the initial approach phase to Tangier’s runway 28, the crew experienced a flap malfunction, with the flaps becoming stuck at the initial deployment (position 1).
• Due to this malfunction, the crew initiated a go-around and assessed the abnormal situation.
Second Approach & Landing:
• The flight crew configured the aircraft for a second approach, adjusting their landing calculations for the limited flap deployment.
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 28 at a higher-than-normal approach speed (approximately 160 knots over ground).
• No injuries or structural damage were reported during landing.
Investigation & Initial Findings
• The exact cause of the flap deployment failure remains under maintenance review.
• Possible factors include:
• Mechanical blockage or jamming of the flap mechanism.
• Hydraulic system malfunction affecting flap actuator performance.
• Electrical or control system anomaly resulting in restricted flap movement.
• After 24 hours of maintenance and inspections, the aircraft was cleared to return to service, suggesting the resolution of the underlying issue.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
• Airlines should reinforce procedures for managing flap deployment anomalies, particularly during critical approach phases.
• Maintenance inspections of flap systems should include detailed checks for mechanical wear, hydraulic integrity, and electrical faults.
• Pilots should be routinely trained to perform flapless or partial-flap landings, ensuring preparedness for increased approach speeds and altered handling characteristics.
• Continued monitoring and investigation of flap system performance in A320 fleets may be advisable to detect patterns or recurrent issues.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 23 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
