Date: 7th December 2024
Location: Tawau, Malaysia
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200, registration 9M-AHV
Operator: AirAsia
Flight Number: AK-5741
Route: Tawau (TWU) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Malaysia
Occupants: 170
Injuries: None reported
Damage: None reported
Summary of Events
On 7th December 2024, AirAsia flight AK-5741 departed from Tawau’s runway 24 en route to Kuala Lumpur with 170 passengers on board. Shortly after takeoff, the crew detected trouble with the aircraft’s right-hand engine (CFM56) and stopped the climb at 4000 feet. The aircraft entered a holding pattern to troubleshoot the issue before safely returning to Tawau’s runway 24 approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes after departure.
A replacement Airbus A320-200, registration 9M-AGY, was dispatched to transport the passengers to Kuala Lumpur, arriving with a delay of 6.5 hours. The affected aircraft remained grounded for detailed inspection and repairs before being repositioned to Kuala Lumpur about 24.5 hours later.
Initial Findings
1. Engine Malfunction:
• The right-hand engine (CFM56) displayed abnormal performance, prompting the crew to initiate safety protocols.
• Specific details of the engine issue remain under investigation.
2. Crew Response:
• The crew demonstrated a coordinated response, stabilizing the aircraft at a safe altitude, troubleshooting the issue, and executing a precautionary return to the departure airport.
3. Operational Disruption:
• Passengers experienced delays due to the need for a replacement aircraft.
Safety Risks
1. Engine Performance Issues:
• In-flight engine malfunctions pose a potential risk of loss of power or other cascading failures.
2. Passenger Delays:
• Flight disruptions from mechanical issues require robust contingency planning and communication strategies.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspections:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the affected engine to identify and rectify the root cause of the issue.
2. Maintenance Monitoring:
• Enhance monitoring programs for early detection of potential engine anomalies, particularly in high-cycle operations.
3. Crew Training:
• Continue to emphasize emergency procedures for engine malfunctions during critical phases of flight.
4. Passenger Communication:
• Ensure timely updates and support for passengers during disruptions caused by technical issues.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the importance of proactive engine maintenance programs and effective crew resource management in responding to in-flight emergencies. The crew’s swift actions ensured the safety of all on board, with no reported injuries or damage.
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