Overview
On May 8th, 2024, a FedEx Boeing 767-300 freighter (registration N110FE) operating flight FX-6238 from Paris Charles de Gaulle (France) to Istanbul (Turkey) experienced a nose gear malfunction during its approach to Istanbul’s runway 16R. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the issue, the crew conducted a nose gear-up landing. The aircraft sustained damage, but there were no injuries reported.
Incident Details
Flight Information
• Aircraft Type: Boeing 767-300 Freighter
• Registration: N110FE
• Operator: FedEx Federal Express
• Flight Number: FX-6238
• Route: Paris (CDG) to Istanbul (IST)
• Occupants: Unknown (Crew Only)
Sequence of Events
1. Approach Phase:
• During the initial approach to Istanbul’s runway 16R, the crew received an unsafe nose gear indication at approximately 1800 feet MSL, prompting a go-around.
2. Low Approach and Gear Assessment:
• About 25 minutes later, the aircraft conducted a low approach over the runway, enabling the crew and ground observers to visually inspect the nose gear.
• It was confirmed that the nose gear was not extended.
3. Landing Without Nose Gear:
• The crew positioned the aircraft for another approach to runway 16R.
• At 08:17L (05:17Z), the aircraft executed a gear-up landing on its nose, with the nose resting on the runway surface.
• Emergency services were on standby, and the landing was conducted without further incident.
4. Aftermath:
• There were no injuries to the crew.
• The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the nose section.
Findings
Cause of the Incident
• Nose Gear Malfunction:
• Preliminary findings indicate a mechanical failure in the nose gear extension system, which prevented the gear from deploying.
• Detailed analysis of the landing gear system and associated hydraulic and electronic components is ongoing.
Contributing Factors
• Failure Diagnostics:
• Despite following the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) procedures, the crew was unable to rectify the issue in-flight.
• The manual gear extension mechanism might have been obstructed or inoperative.
Crew Actions
• Professional Decision-Making:
• The crew’s go-around and subsequent low approach demonstrated effective situational awareness and decision-making under stress.
• The landing was executed with minimal additional damage, thanks to proper communication and coordination with ground support.
Recommendations
1. Landing Gear Inspection Protocols:
• FedEx Maintenance Teams should conduct a detailed inspection of the nose gear system, focusing on the manual extension mechanisms and potential blockages.
2. Training Enhancements:
• Reinforce training for nose gear-up landing procedures, ensuring crews are fully prepared for similar scenarios.
3. Component Quality Control:
• Collaborate with Boeing and landing gear manufacturers to investigate the root cause of the malfunction and assess if the issue is isolated or systemic.
4. Emergency Landing Protocol Reviews:
• Conduct a post-incident review to ensure emergency landing protocols are optimised for both freighter and passenger operations.
Conclusion
The nose gear-up landing of FedEx Flight FX-6238 underscores the importance of robust landing gear systems and effective crew training. While the situation posed significant challenges, the crew’s decisive actions ensured the safety of all on board. A comprehensive investigation is needed to determine the root cause of the malfunction and to implement measures to prevent recurrence.
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.
