Overview
• Operator: Binter Canarias
• Aircraft Model: ATR-72-212A
• Registration: EC-MXQ
• Flight Number: NT-283
• Route: Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) → Las Palmas (Canary Islands), Spain
• Date: 7 February 2025
• Occupants: Undisclosed
• Nature of Incident: Engine failure in descent
Incident Summary
Binter Canarias flight NT-283, operated by an ATR-72-212A (EC-MXQ), was on final descent into Las Palmas, Canary Islands, when the left-hand engine (Pratt & Whitney PW127M) failed at approximately 6,000 feet. The crew declared an emergency and continued the approach on a single engine, landing safely on runway 03L about 10 minutes later.
The aircraft remained grounded for 46 hours before returning to service.
Sequence of Events
Descent & Engine Failure
• The aircraft was in final descent to Las Palmas when the crew reported an engine failure.
• The failure was not accompanied by fire or visible smoke, indicating mechanical or fuel-related issues rather than an in-flight fire.
• Single-engine procedures were executed by the flight crew.
Emergency Declaration & Landing
• The crew declared an emergency with ATC and prioritized landing at the nearest suitable airport.
• The aircraft continued descent without further incident, aligning for runway 03L.
• A textbook single-engine landing was executed at Las Palmas.
Post-Landing Actions
• The aircraft was inspected, and the affected engine was examined for possible mechanical failure.
• The aircraft remained on the ground for approximately 46 hours, likely for detailed inspections and minor maintenance before being cleared for return to service.
Potential Causes & Technical Analysis
While the exact cause of the engine failure remains under investigation, several possibilities exist:
1. Mechanical Failure (Compressor Stall / Turbine Damage)
• ATR-72 aircraft with PW127M engines have experienced compressor stalls in past incidents.
• If foreign object ingestion (such as volcanic ash, ice, or debris) occurred, it could have led to turbine damage.
2. Fuel System Malfunction
• Fuel contamination or fuel pump failure could have resulted in a loss of power to the engine.
• If a fuel filter clogging issue was present, it might explain why the failure occurred during descent.
3. Sensor or Control System Fault
• A faulty FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system could have incorrectly shut down the engine due to a sensor misreading.
Safety Considerations & Recommendations
• Engine performance monitoring systems should be thoroughly reviewed for signs of potential failures.
• Binter Canarias should conduct post-flight inspections on all ATR-72 aircraft with similar operating conditions.
• Passengers should be reassured about ATR-72 safety, given its redundancy in twin-engine operation.
Aircraft Status & Operational Impact
• The aircraft remained out of service for 46 hours before resuming operations.
• No flight diversions or further disruptions were reported.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 10 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.
