Date: 4th December 2024
Location: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Hungary
Aircraft: Boeing 767-300 Freighter, registration 4L-CME
Operator: CAMEX Airlines
Flight Number: Z7-872
Route: Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Budapest (Hungary)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 4th December 2024, a CAMEX Airlines Boeing 767-300 freighter, operating flight Z7-872 from Almaty to Budapest, declared a PAN PAN emergency during approach to Budapest’s runway 31R. The crew reported the need for a flaps-up landing and entered a holding pattern to perform the required checklists. The aircraft subsequently landed safely at a higher-than-normal speed without incident.
The aircraft remains grounded in Budapest, pending inspection and maintenance.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach Phase:
• During the descent into Budapest, the crew detected a malfunction preventing the deployment of the flaps.
• The crew declared a PAN PAN emergency and informed air traffic control of the situation.
2. Holding Pattern:
• The aircraft entered a holding pattern to allow the crew to complete flaps-up landing procedures and burn excess fuel to reduce landing weight.
3. Final Approach:
• The crew requested an extended final approach to ensure adequate time for stabilisation at the higher-than-normal approach speed.
4. Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 31R at Budapest with no reported injuries or damage.
• Emergency services were on standby but were not required.
Aircraft Information
The Boeing 767-300 freighter is a long-haul, twin-engine aircraft widely used for cargo transport. Its flaps are critical for adjusting lift and drag during takeoff and landing, allowing for lower approach speeds and shorter landing distances.
Initial Findings
Possible Causes for Flap Failure
1. Hydraulic System Malfunction:
• The flaps on the 767-300 are hydraulically actuated. A failure in the hydraulic system, such as a leak or pump failure, could prevent flap deployment.
2. Mechanical Obstruction or Damage:
• Physical damage or a blockage within the flap mechanism could restrict movement.
3. Electrical or Control System Fault:
• A fault in the flap control system, such as a failed actuator or wiring issue, could render the system inoperative.
Safety Risks
1. Higher Landing Speeds:
• A flaps-up landing requires a significantly higher approach and landing speed, increasing stress on the landing gear and brakes.
2. Runway Overrun:
• Without flaps, the increased landing speed extends the landing distance, increasing the risk of a runway excursion.
3. Crew Workload:
• Addressing a flaps-up landing adds to the crew’s workload during a critical phase of flight.
Recommendations
1. Inspection and Maintenance:
• Perform a detailed inspection of the flap system, including hydraulics, actuators, and control circuits.
2. Crew Training:
• Ensure flight crews are regularly trained in handling flaps-up landings, including checklist management and speed control during approach.
3. Data Analysis:
• Analyse flight data to identify any precursors to the flap failure, such as system alerts or anomalies during previous flights.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the importance of robust training and adherence to emergency procedures. The crew’s decisive actions and communication with ATC ensured a safe outcome despite the challenges of a flaps-up landing.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts available at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
