Date: 3rd December 2024
Location: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Netherlands
Aircraft: Airbus A330-300, registration N810NW
Operator: Delta Airlines
Flight Number: DL-57
Route: Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Salt Lake City, Utah (USA)
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 3rd December 2024, Delta Airlines flight DL-57, an Airbus A330-300, rejected its takeoff at low speed on Amsterdam’s runway 36L due to reported hot brakes. The aircraft exited the runway via the first taxiway, stopping for approximately 40 minutes to assess the situation. After resolving the issue, the aircraft departed successfully and continued its flight to Salt Lake City with a delay of around 25 minutes.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff Roll:
• The aircraft commenced its takeoff roll on runway 36L.
• During initial acceleration at low speed, the flight crew detected indications of hot brakes.
2. Rejected Takeoff:
• The crew decided to reject the takeoff and safely vacated the runway via the first exit, located about 0.3nm down the runway.
3. Stop on Taxiway:
• The aircraft stopped on the taxiway for approximately 40 minutes to investigate the issue and ensure the brakes had cooled sufficiently.
4. Departure:
• Following confirmation of operational safety, the aircraft departed from runway 36L and continued to Salt Lake City without further complications.
Aircraft Information
The Airbus A330-300 is a wide-body twin-engine aircraft designed for medium- to long-haul flights. Its braking system incorporates advanced anti-skid technology and temperature sensors to ensure safety during takeoff and landing.
Initial Findings
Potential Causes of Hot Brakes
1. Residual Braking:
• Incomplete release of brake pressure during taxi or alignment for takeoff may have caused brake overheating.
2. Taxiway Conditions:
• Extended taxi or high braking demand during taxi may have contributed to elevated brake temperatures before the takeoff attempt.
3. Brake System Malfunction:
• A potential issue with the anti-skid or brake release systems could have caused excessive heat buildup.
Safety Risks
1. Brake System Performance:
• Hot brakes can compromise the braking system’s performance, posing risks during an emergency stop at higher speeds.
2. Aircraft Handling:
• Elevated brake temperatures can lead to wheel assembly issues, potentially affecting taxi or takeoff handling.
3. Operational Delays:
• Unexpected stops on active taxiways or runways can cause delays and disrupt airport operations.
Recommendations
1. Brake System Checks:
• Conduct thorough inspections of brake assemblies, temperature sensors, and anti-skid systems during routine maintenance.
2. Taxi Procedures:
• Review taxiing procedures to minimise excessive brake use, particularly during extended ground operations.
3. Crew Training:
• Reinforce training on brake monitoring and early identification of abnormal conditions during ground operations.
4. Data Monitoring:
• Analyse flight data to identify trends of similar brake temperature anomalies across the fleet.
Safety Lessons
This event underscores the importance of monitoring brake system performance during all phases of ground operations. The crew’s prompt decision to reject the takeoff ensured the safety of passengers and the aircraft, highlighting the value of standard operating procedures and effective decision-making in addressing technical anomalies.
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.
