Overview
• Operator: Ajet
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: TC-JFH
• Flight Number: VF-3182
• Route: Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (Turkey) → Batman (Turkey)
• Date: 5 February 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Nature of Incident: Cracked windshield
Incident Summary
Ajet flight VF-3182, operated by a Boeing 737-800 (TC-JFH), departed Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) bound for Batman (BAL) when the crew stopped the climb at 10,000 feet after detecting a cracked windshield. The pilots decided to return to Istanbul as a precautionary measure.
During the return, the crew performed a go-around on final approach to runway 06R before safely landing on the second attempt. The aircraft touched down approximately 45 minutes after departure.
A replacement aircraft (TC-JFN) was dispatched, allowing passengers to continue their journey with a delay of approximately 2.5 hours.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff & Initial Climb:
• Flight VF-3182 departed Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen’s runway 06L.
• The aircraft climbed to 10,000 feet before the crew reported a cracked windshield.
2. Decision to Return:
• The pilots elected to return to Istanbul as a precaution.
• Air Traffic Control cleared the aircraft for an immediate return.
3. Approach & Go-Around:
• The aircraft initially lined up for runway 06R but performed a go-around on final approach.
• The crew repositioned and landed safely on the second attempt.
4. Passenger Transfer & Aircraft Inspection:
• A replacement Boeing 737-800 (TC-JFN) was dispatched for passengers.
• The affected aircraft remained on the ground for approximately 24 hours before returning to service.
Analysis & Possible Causes
1. Thermal or Structural Stress:
• Sudden temperature changes during climb-out can cause thermal expansion and contraction, leading to stress fractures in cockpit windows.
• Manufacturing defects or fatigue from previous cycles could contribute to failure.
2. Foreign Object Impact:
• The windshield may have sustained damage from debris or foreign objects during takeoff.
• Bird strikes are also a possible contributing factor but were not explicitly reported.
3. Pressurization Fluctuations:
• If the aircraft’s pressurization system experienced irregularities, it could have exacerbated pre-existing weaknesses in the windshield.
Preventative Measures & Safety Recommendations
• Pre-flight Inspections: Ensure routine checks of cockpit windows for any stress fractures, delamination, or anomalies.
• Enhanced Monitoring: Encourage flight crews to monitor pressurization systems closely for any irregularities during climb-out.
• Procedural Review: Assess pilot decision-making protocols for handling windshield failures, including timing of go-arounds and landing priorities.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 7 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.
