Incident Overview
• Date: January 17th, 2025
• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: 9H-KAR
• Flight Number: BZ-271
• Route: Berlin (Germany) to Tel Aviv (Israel)
• Injuries: None
• Classification: Incident
Summary of Events
Bluebird flight BZ-271, operating a Boeing 737-800, encountered a cabin pressurization issue shortly after departure from Berlin. As the aircraft climbed through FL150, the crew identified the problem and initiated a descent to FL100. The aircraft returned to Berlin for a safe landing on runway 25R, approximately 35 minutes after departure.
The aircraft remained on the ground for about 3 hours, during which maintenance was performed. The flight later resumed with an intermediate stop in Athens, Greece, before continuing to Tel Aviv.
Sequence of Events
1. Departure from Berlin:
• Flight BZ-271 departed from Berlin’s runway 25R en route to Tel Aviv.
• The cabin pressurization system malfunctioned as the aircraft climbed through FL150.
2. Emergency Descent and Return:
• The crew identified the issue, stopped the climb, and descended the aircraft to a safe altitude of FL100.
• After assessing the situation, they decided to return to Berlin, landing safely about 35 minutes after departure.
3. Maintenance and Resumption:
• The aircraft was inspected and underwent maintenance during its 3-hour stay in Berlin.
• It later departed again for Tel Aviv, with an intermediate stop in Athens. This sector climbed successfully to FL370, indicating the issue was resolved.
Probable Cause
While the exact cause is under investigation, common causes for cabin pressurization issues include:
• Faulty Cabin Pressure Controller: The automated system responsible for regulating cabin pressure may have malfunctioned.
• Outflow Valve Issues: A stuck or malfunctioning outflow valve could prevent proper pressurization.
• Leaks in Cabin Seals: Structural issues such as door or window seals could contribute to pressure loss.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
1. Enhanced Maintenance Checks:
• Ensure rigorous inspections of the pressurization system, including outflow valves and cabin pressure controllers.
2. Crew Training:
• Reiterate standard procedures for identifying and responding to pressurization failures, including emergency descents.
3. Passenger Awareness:
• Emphasize the importance of passenger compliance with safety instructions during such incidents.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of effective pressurization system maintenance and the crew’s ability to safely manage in-flight abnormalities. The subsequent successful departure indicates the issue was rectified, allowing for a safe continuation of operations.
Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available information as of January 17th, 2025. If you are the rightful owner of any associated content and wish it to be removed, contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
