Date: 19th December 2024
Location: 210nm Northeast of Asunción, Paraguay
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8, registration EC-MOM
Operator: Air Europa
Flight Number: UX-122
Route: Córdoba, CD (Argentina) to Madrid, SP (Spain)
Occupants: 284 (Passengers and Crew)
Injuries: None
Summary of Events
On 19th December 2024, Air Europa Flight UX-122, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Córdoba, Argentina, to Madrid, Spain, was cruising at FL370 when the flight crew detected an engine oil leak in one of the aircraft’s Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines. After assessing the situation, the captain decided to turn the aircraft around and divert to Asunción, Paraguay, for a precautionary landing. The aircraft landed safely on Runway 02 approximately 45 minutes later.
Sequence of Events
1. Initial Cruise:
• Flight UX-122 departed Córdoba, Argentina, bound for Madrid, Spain, with 284 passengers and crew onboard. The aircraft reached its cruising altitude of FL370 without incident.
2. Detection of Oil Leak:
• Approximately 210 nautical miles northeast of Asunción, the crew identified an oil leak in one of the Trent 1000 engines through onboard monitoring systems.
3. Decision to Divert:
• In accordance with established safety protocols, the captain opted to divert to Asunción’s Silvio Pettirossi International Airport to ensure passenger and aircraft safety.
4. Descent and Landing:
• The aircraft commenced its descent, landing safely on Runway 02 in Asunción approximately 45 minutes after the oil leak was detected. Emergency services were on standby as a precaution.
5. Post-Landing Procedures:
• Passengers disembarked and were provided with accommodation and assistance while awaiting alternative travel arrangements.
Aircraft Details
• Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
• Registration: EC-MOM
• Engines: Rolls-Royce Trent 1000
• Configuration: Passenger aircraft
The Boeing 787-8 is equipped with advanced onboard monitoring systems, which enable real-time detection of anomalies such as engine oil leaks.
Initial Findings
1. Cause of Diversion:
• A leak in one of the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines led to a precautionary diversion.
2. Safety Measures:
• The crew’s decision to divert to the nearest suitable airport aligns with standard operating procedures to mitigate risks associated with potential engine failure.
3. Passenger Impact:
• The incident caused an operational delay, but passengers were safely accommodated in Asunción with onward travel arrangements organized by Air Europa.
Safety Implications
1. Engine Monitoring Systems:
• The early detection of the oil leak underscores the importance of advanced engine monitoring and the proactive measures taken by the flight crew.
2. Operational Disruption:
• While the diversion ensured safety, it highlighted the logistical challenges airlines face in such scenarios, including passenger accommodation and aircraft recovery.
3. Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 Issues:
• The Trent 1000 engine series has faced reliability challenges in the past, including issues with durability and performance, prompting manufacturers to enhance maintenance protocols and design improvements.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the affected Trent 1000 engine to identify the source and cause of the oil leak.
2. Enhanced Monitoring Protocols:
• Review and refine monitoring procedures for early detection of engine oil anomalies to reduce the likelihood of similar occurrences.
3. Passenger Handling:
• Improve contingency plans to ensure minimal disruption and timely communication with passengers during operational diversions.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the critical role of advanced engine monitoring systems in identifying potential safety risks early. The crew’s prompt actions and adherence to protocols ensured the safety of all occupants and avoided further complications. Continued attention to engine reliability and passenger communication is vital for maintaining operational excellence.
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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.
