Overview
• Operator: CommutAir on behalf of United Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Embraer ERJ-145
• Registration: N27190
• Flight Number: UA-4816
• Route: Amarillo, TX (AMA) to Houston Intercontinental, TX (IAH), USA
• Date: 29 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
Incident Summary
CommutAir flight UA-4816, an Embraer ERJ-145, was climbing out of Amarillo’s Runway 04 when the crew reported a left-hand engine failure. The crew declared an emergency, stopped the climb at 12,000 feet, and decided to divert to Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB), where the aircraft landed safely on Runway 17R approximately 40 minutes after departure.
The airline later confirmed that the aircraft experienced a maintenance issue and was diverted due to more favorable weather conditions in Lubbock.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff and Climb
• The ERJ-145 departed Amarillo’s Runway 04 and began its climb toward cruising altitude.
• Shortly after departure, the left-hand engine (Ae3007) reportedly failed.
2. Emergency Declaration and Diversion
• The crew declared an emergency and stopped the climb at 12,000 feet.
• After assessing the situation, the crew opted to divert to Lubbock instead of returning to Amarillo due to better weather conditions.
3. Safe Landing at Lubbock
• The aircraft landed without further incident on Runway 17R at Lubbock approximately 40 minutes after departure.
• Emergency services were on standby but were not required upon landing.
4. Passenger Re-Accommodation
• A replacement Embraer ERJ-145, registration N17196, was dispatched to complete the flight to Houston Intercontinental.
• The replacement flight departed Lubbock and reached Houston with a delay of approximately 5 hours.
Airline Statement
CommutAir confirmed that the aircraft experienced a maintenance issue shortly after departure and that the decision to divert was based on better weather conditions at Lubbock. The airline has not disclosed the specific cause of the engine failure but stated that passenger safety was never compromised.
Investigation and Technical Analysis
• Engine Failure:
• The left-hand engine, a Rolls-Royce AE3007, reportedly failed during the initial climb.
• Common causes of such failures include compressor stalls, fuel system issues, or mechanical malfunctions.
• Potential Causes:
• Compressor Stall or Surge: A sudden disruption in airflow could have caused an engine flameout.
• Fuel or Ignition System Malfunction: A disruption in fuel supply or ignition failure may have resulted in the engine shutting down.
• Sensor or Electronic Malfunction: A false engine failure indication could have prompted the crew to shut down the engine as a precautionary measure.
• Next Steps:
• The aircraft remains grounded for further inspection by CommutAir’s maintenance team.
• The engine’s FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) data will be analyzed to determine the exact cause of the failure.
• If necessary, the engine may be replaced before returning to service.
Aircraft Status
• The affected Embraer ERJ-145 remains grounded in Lubbock for further maintenance and engine diagnostics.
• The replacement aircraft successfully transported passengers to Houston following a 5-hour delay.
Safety and Operational Considerations
• In-flight engine failures are uncommon but well-prepared crews follow established emergency protocols to ensure safe landings.
• The decision to divert to Lubbock instead of returning to Amarillo was based on weather conditions and operational safety.
• The incident highlights the importance of pilot training in emergency engine-out procedures and the reliability of ERJ-145’s twin-engine design, which allows for safe flight and landing with one operational engine.
The FAA and CommutAir maintenance teams will review the incident to determine if any preventative maintenance measures are required for the rest of the fleet.
Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available information as of 30 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.
