Date: 2nd December 2024
Location: Monroe Regional Airport, Louisiana, USA
Aircraft: Embraer ERJ-145, registration N14148
Operator: CommutAir on behalf of United Airlines
Flight Number: UA-4830
Route: Little Rock, Arkansas, to Houston, Texas, USA
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 2nd December 2024, CommutAir flight UA-4830, an Embraer ERJ-145 operating from Little Rock to Houston, encountered smoke in the cockpit while climbing through FL250. The crew declared an emergency and diverted to Monroe Regional Airport in Louisiana, landing safely on Runway 04 approximately 20 minutes later. Emergency services were on standby but were not required for active intervention.
The aircraft remained grounded for further inspection and is still on the ground approximately 25 hours after landing.
Aircraft Information
The Embraer ERJ-145 is a regional jet frequently used for short to medium-haul flights. It is equipped with environmental control systems that condition air supplied to the cockpit and cabin, as well as advanced detection systems to alert the crew to smoke or fumes.
Sequence of Events
1. Climb Phase:
• Shortly after departure from Little Rock, AR, the crew detected smoke in the cockpit while climbing through FL250.
2. Emergency Declaration and Diversion:
• The crew declared an emergency and initiated a diversion to Monroe Regional Airport, the nearest suitable landing site.
3. Safe Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely on Monroe’s Runway 04 approximately 20 minutes after the onset of the smoke issue.
4. Post-Landing Inspection:
• Emergency services inspected the aircraft, but no active fire or smoke was found during initial checks.
Initial Findings
Potential Causes of Cockpit Smoke
1. Environmental Control System (ECS) Malfunction:
• The ECS, responsible for providing conditioned air to the cockpit and cabin, may have malfunctioned, resulting in smoke or fumes.
2. Electrical Fault:
• An electrical short circuit or overheating component could have caused localized smoke in the cockpit.
3. Bleed Air Contamination:
• Oil or other contaminants in the engine bleed air supply could have entered the ECS, causing smoke or fumes.
Safety Risks
1. Reduced Visibility and Crew Performance:
• Smoke in the cockpit can impair visibility and cognitive performance, increasing the risk of errors during critical phases of flight.
2. Diversion Risks:
• Emergency diversions can disrupt air traffic and increase risks during unplanned landings, especially at smaller airports.
3. Potential Fire Hazard:
• While no fire was detected, any cockpit smoke incident must be treated as a potential precursor to an in-flight fire.
Recommendations
1. Environmental Control System Maintenance:
• Conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance of the ECS, including filters, ducts, and compressors.
2. Electrical System Checks:
• Perform a detailed examination of cockpit wiring and avionics to identify potential sources of electrical overheating.
3. Bleed Air System Monitoring:
• Test for contaminants in the bleed air supply system to ensure no oil or other materials enter the air conditioning system.
4. Crew Training:
• Reinforce emergency procedures for managing cockpit smoke, including the use of oxygen masks and rapid descent protocols.
5. Data Recording Analysis:
• Review flight data and cockpit voice recordings to determine the sequence of events leading to the smoke issue.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident highlights the importance of robust maintenance protocols for environmental and electrical systems, as well as comprehensive crew training to manage unexpected smoke or fumes in the cockpit. The prompt decision-making and effective emergency procedures of the crew ensured a safe outcome.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
