Overview
• Operator: Boliviana de Aviación (BoA)
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-700
• Registration: CP-2923
• Flight Number: OB-648
• Route: Cochabamba to Santa Cruz (Bolivia)
• Date: 27 January 2025
• Occupants: 137 passengers, 7 crew
• Injuries: None reported
• Damage: None reported
Incident Summary
BoA flight OB-648, operating a Boeing 737-700, was conducting takeoff from Cochabamba’s runway 32 when the crew detected an engine anomaly involving the right-hand engine (CFM56). The crew rejected takeoff while still on the runway. Smoke was observed emanating from the right-hand engine and inside the cabin, prompting the crew to initiate an emergency evacuation via slides.
Emergency services responded immediately, spraying both the left and right engines as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported, and all occupants safely exited the aircraft.
The aircraft remains grounded at Cochabamba Airport for further inspection and maintenance.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff Roll & Rejected Takeoff
• The aircraft was accelerating for departure on runway 32 when the crew detected a right-hand engine issue.
• Takeoff was aborted, and the aircraft came to a stop on the runway.
2. Smoke Detection & Emergency Evacuation
• Smoke was observed coming from the right-hand engine.
• Cabin crew reported smoke developing inside the cabin, likely due to air circulation from the affected engine.
• The crew initiated an evacuation via slides as a precautionary measure.
3. Emergency Response
• Airport fire crews arrived on scene, spraying both engines as a precaution.
• No visible flames were reported, and passengers and crew disembarked without injury.
4. Aircraft Status & Investigation
• The Boeing 737-700 remains grounded at Cochabamba for further inspections.
• Maintenance teams are conducting a full engine assessment to determine the root cause of the failure.
Investigation & Possible Causes
• Engine Malfunction:
• Preliminary reports suggest a failure in the right-hand CFM56 engine.
• The presence of smoke indicates a potential oil or fuel leak leading to thermal stress.
• Bleed Air System Issue:
• Smoke in the cabin suggests engine bleed air contamination, possibly from oil or hydraulic fluid leakage.
• Rejected Takeoff & Braking Considerations:
• The decision to abort takeoff was executed in accordance with standard rejected takeoff procedures.
• The aircraft remained controllable and stopped safely on the runway.
Safety Considerations & Recommendations
• Engine System Inspection:
• Maintenance teams will conduct a thorough review of the CFM56 engine, including fuel system integrity, oil seals, and thermal components.
• Cabin Air Contamination Analysis:
• The smoke in the cabin suggests possible air duct contamination, requiring investigation into the environmental control system (ECS).
• Emergency Response & Passenger Handling:
• The crew’s quick decision to evacuate was precautionary, ensuring the safety of all occupants.
• The airport fire department’s rapid response helped mitigate risks associated with potential fire hazards.
Aircraft Status & Next Steps
• The Boeing 737-700 remains out of service at Cochabamba Airport for detailed inspections and maintenance actions.
• BoA and aviation safety authorities will conduct a full technical investigation before clearing the aircraft for a return to operations.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 28 January 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.
