Overview
• Operator: EasyJet Switzerland
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A320-200
• Registration: HB-JXF
• Flight Number: U2-1498
• Route: Rovaniemi (Finland) to Geneva (Switzerland)
• Date: 24 January 2025
• Occupants: 115 people on board
• Nature of Incident: Smell of smoke in the cabin, precautionary diversion
• Investigation: Under review by EasyJet maintenance and Swedish aviation authorities
Incident Summary
EasyJet Switzerland flight U2-1498, an Airbus A320-200, was operating from Rovaniemi, Finland, to Geneva, Switzerland, when the crew detected a smell of smoke in the cabin while cruising at FL380 approximately 170 nautical miles north of Stockholm, Sweden.
The crew declared a precautionary emergency and requested diversion to Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The aircraft landed safely on runway 19R approximately 30 minutes later, where it was met by emergency services.
Swedish emergency response teams confirmed there was a faint smell of smoke on board but determined that no active fire or further intervention was required.
Sequence of Events
Cruise Phase
• The aircraft was at FL380 when the cabin crew detected a faint smell of smoke.
• The flight crew followed standard operating procedures, including confirming the source of the smell and conducting checklists for smoke and fumes.
Diversion to Stockholm
• The decision was made to divert to Stockholm Arlanda Airport as a precaution.
• The crew advised air traffic control and initiated a descent towards the airport.
Approach & Landing
• The aircraft landed safely on Stockholm’s runway 19R approximately 30 minutes after the decision to divert.
• The aircraft taxied to a remote stand, where emergency services performed an external and internal inspection.
Post-Landing Assessment
• Swedish emergency responders confirmed no visible smoke or fire but acknowledged a faint odour in the cabin.
• The aircraft was inspected by EasyJet maintenance.
• No immediate cause was identified, and further investigation was scheduled.
Potential Causes & Technical Analysis
The source of the smoke smell remains undetermined but could be attributed to several potential factors:
• Environmental Control System (ECS): Electrical or mechanical faults in the air conditioning packs, bleed air system, or recirculation fans could introduce odours into the cabin.
• Oil or Hydraulic Fluid Contamination: Leaks in the air supply system (such as engine oil seals or APU exhaust) may cause burning smells.
• Electrical Component Overheating: Faults in avionics systems, power distribution, or in-flight entertainment units may generate odours without visible smoke.
• Cabin Materials & Equipment: Malfunctioning galley ovens, cabin lighting ballasts, or power outlets could produce burning smells.
Further inspections are required to determine the root cause.
Aircraft Status & Investigation
• The aircraft was temporarily grounded at Stockholm Arlanda Airport for inspection and troubleshooting.
• EasyJet maintenance engineers conducted an assessment but found no immediate source of the issue.
• The Swedish aviation authorities were informed, though no formal investigation was announced.
Conclusion & Safety Considerations
• The crew followed established safety protocols, responding swiftly to a potential fire hazard by diverting.
• The absence of visible smoke or fire suggests a minor air system contamination issue, though further inspections are required.
• Airlines continue to monitor in-flight air quality incidents, and EasyJet will likely review its cabin air filtration and ventilation procedures.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 25 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.
