Overview
• Operator: Delta Air Lines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A330-300
• Registration: N813NW
• Flight Number: DL-56
• Route: Salt Lake City (SLC) to Amsterdam (AMS)
• Date: 22 February 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None reported
• Nature of Incident: Hydraulic leak leading to Mayday declaration and braking system concerns after landing
Incident Summary
A Delta Air Lines Airbus A330-300, operating flight DL-56 from Salt Lake City (SLC) to Amsterdam (AMS), was on approach to runway 18R at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport when the crew declared a Mayday due to a hydraulic issue.
The aircraft continued its approach and landed safely about 15 minutes later, then vacated the runway but stopped for inspection by emergency services.
Ground crews noticed fluid leaking from the aircraft, leading to concerns about a possible fuel or hydraulic fluid leak. Emergency services requested the left-hand engine (PW4168A) be shut down, to which the crew responded that they needed to shut down both engines due to an emerging brakes issue.
Ground control instructed the aircraft to hold position, and emergency responders remained on high alert. A tow truck was dispatched to tow the aircraft to the gate.
The aircraft remained on the ground for approximately 3.5 hours before being cleared to return to service.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The aircraft was on final approach to runway 18R at AMS when the crew identified a hydraulic problem.
• A Mayday call was declared, alerting ATC and emergency services.
Landing & Immediate Aftermath:
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 18R and vacated the runway without immediate complications.
• Emergency services conducted an external inspection, noticing fluid leaking from the aircraft.
• Emergency responders requested shutdown of the left-hand engine, to which the crew responded that both engines needed to be shut down due to braking issues.
• Ground control advised the aircraft to remain in position, and a tow truck was arranged to move the aircraft to the gate.
Post-Incident Actions:
• The aircraft was towed to the gate, where maintenance crews conducted hydraulic system inspections.
• The aircraft was able to return to service approximately 3.5 hours later, indicating the issue was addressed without major system damage.
Investigation & Initial Findings
• The hydraulic system failure led to fluid leakage, likely affecting:
• Braking and landing gear actuation.
• Flight control systems reliant on hydraulic power.
• Possible causes under investigation include:
• Hydraulic line rupture due to wear or pressure overload.
• Faulty hydraulic pump or actuator leakage.
• Overheating or contamination of hydraulic fluid.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
• Routine hydraulic system inspections should be reinforced to detect early signs of leaks or wear.
• Crew handling of the situation was effective, following proper emergency procedures and ensuring a controlled landing despite the hydraulic failure.
• Ground handling and emergency response were well-coordinated, ensuring minimal risk to passengers and crew.
• Further investigation into A330-300 hydraulic systems may be necessary if this issue is found to be part of a broader trend within the fleet.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 26 February 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.”
