Overview
On January 4th, 2025, an ETF Airways Boeing 737-800 (registration 9A-ABC) performing flight NO-6243 from Sharm el Sheikh (Egypt) to Rome Fiumicino (Italy) experienced a fire in a LED lightbar located in the overhead lockers during climb. The crew declared an emergency and returned to Sharm el Sheikh, where the aircraft landed safely on runway 04L approximately 30 minutes after departure.
Incident Details
Flight Information
• Aircraft Type: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: 9A-ABC
• Operator: ETF Airways
• Flight Number: NO-6243
• Route: Sharm el Sheikh (SSH) to Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
• Occupants: Unknown exact count at the time of reporting
Sequence of Events
1. Climb Out:
• The aircraft was climbing out of Sharm el Sheikh’s runway 04L, reaching FL120, when a fire was reported in the overhead lockers.
2. In-Flight Fire Management:
• Cabin crew identified that a recently installed LED lightbar had caught fire.
• Flight attendants used a fire extinguisher to suppress the flames.
3. Diversion to Sharm el Sheikh:
• The captain decided to return to Sharm el Sheikh as a precaution.
• The aircraft landed safely with emergency services on standby.
4. Post-Landing Actions:
• The LED lighting system was isolated and repaired.
• The aircraft resumed its journey to Rome after a delay of approximately 4 hours.
Findings
Cause of the Fire
• Recent Installation: The LED lightbar involved in the fire had been recently installed.
• Overheating or Electrical Fault: Preliminary indications suggest the fire may have resulted from overheating, electrical wiring issues, or manufacturing defects in the LED lightbar.
Mitigation Measures in Flight
• The cabin crew swiftly identified the fire and used the appropriate extinguishing agent, preventing further escalation.
• The captain’s decision to return to Sharm el Sheikh ensured passenger safety.
Post-Incident Actions
• The entire lighting system was isolated, and the faulty component was repaired or replaced before the aircraft resumed operations.
Recommendations
1. Inspection of Recently Installed Components:
• All recently installed LED lightbars on ETF Airways’ fleet should undergo a thorough inspection to identify any potential defects.
2. Component Quality Assurance:
• Verify the manufacturer’s quality standards for LED lighting systems to ensure compliance with aviation safety standards.
3. Electrical System Audit:
• Conduct a comprehensive review of the electrical systems connected to cabin lighting to prevent overheating or wiring faults.
4. Fire Suppression Training:
• Reinforce cabin crew training in fire suppression techniques, particularly for in-flight electrical fires.
5. Operational Precautions:
• Develop pre-flight checklists to monitor cabin lighting systems, especially those recently modified or replaced.
Conclusion
The in-flight fire caused by a faulty LED lightbar highlights the importance of robust quality control and installation protocols for cabin components. The prompt actions of the crew ensured the safety of passengers and prevented a more severe outcome. This incident underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in component quality assurance and crew training.
Disclaimer
This report is based on facts available at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologise for any missed details or inaccuracies. If you are the rightful owner of any associated images and wish for their removal, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
