Date: 13th December 2024
Location: Birmingham Airport, England, UK
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8, registration VT-ANN
Operator: Air India
Flight Number: AI-113
Route: Delhi (India) to Birmingham (UK)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Damage: Hydraulic system affected
Summary of Events
On 13th December 2024, Air India flight AI-113, a Boeing 787-8, was on final approach to Birmingham Airport’s runway 15 when the crew detected a hydraulic leak. Following standard operating procedures, the crew initiated a go-around and entered a holding pattern to assess the situation and perform relevant checklists.
The aircraft landed safely on runway 15 approximately 30 minutes later. Emergency services inspected the aircraft and confirmed a hydraulic fluid leak at the nose gear. As a precaution, the aircraft was towed to the apron for further inspection and maintenance.
The return flight was postponed to the following day to accommodate necessary repairs.
Initial Findings
1. Hydraulic Leak:
• A hydraulic system issue was identified near the nose landing gear.
• The crew promptly detected the issue and took corrective action to ensure a safe landing.
2. Aircraft Handling:
• The go-around provided the crew with adequate time to troubleshoot and safely manage the situation.
3. Operational Impact:
• The return flight to Delhi was delayed by approximately 28 hours due to maintenance requirements.
Safety Risks
1. Hydraulic System Failure:
• Hydraulic leaks can lead to compromised functionality of critical systems, including steering and braking.
2. Runway Contamination:
• Hydraulic fluid on the runway poses a risk of reduced friction for subsequent aircraft operations.
3. Delayed Operations:
• The delay of the return flight impacted scheduling and passenger connectivity.
Recommendations
1. Inspection and Repair:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the hydraulic system, focusing on the nose gear assembly, to identify the source of the leak and implement repairs.
2. Runway Maintenance:
• Ensure runway 15 is inspected and cleaned to remove any hydraulic fluid residues.
3. Hydraulic Monitoring Procedures:
• Review and reinforce procedures for monitoring hydraulic systems during critical flight phases.
4. Passenger Communication:
• Improve real-time communication with passengers regarding delays and updates to minimize inconvenience.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the importance of effective hydraulic system monitoring and adherence to standard operating procedures in managing in-flight technical issues. The crew’s timely response and coordination ensured a safe outcome without injuries.
Disclaimer
If you are the rightful owner of the photo and wish it to be taken down, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
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.
