Incident Overview
On January 12, 2025, a GoJet Airlines Canadair CRJ-550 (registration N545GJ), operating as United Airlines flight UA-4166, experienced a loss of cabin pressure while en route from Allentown, Pennsylvania, to Chicago O’Hare, Illinois. The incident occurred at FL400, approximately 90 nautical miles south-southeast of Detroit, Michigan. The crew initiated an emergency descent to 10,000 feet and diverted to Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport (DTW), where the aircraft landed safely on runway 21L approximately 35 minutes later.
Timeline of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The aircraft was cruising at FL400 when the crew reported a pressurization issue.
2. Rapid Descent:
• Passenger oxygen masks were deployed following a rapid decompression event.
• The crew descended the aircraft to 10,000 feet.
3. Diversion and Landing:
• The flight diverted to Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport.
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 21L at approximately 8:20 a.m. local time.
4. Post-Incident:
• No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
• The aircraft was inspected and returned to service approximately seven hours later.
Passenger Experience
• Oxygen Masks:
• Passengers reported the release of oxygen masks during the event.
• Cabin crew provided instructions to ensure passenger safety.
Safety Analysis
1. Cabin Pressurization Systems:
• Loss of cabin pressure at cruising altitude is a critical event requiring immediate descent to breathable altitudes.
• The timely deployment of oxygen masks ensured passenger safety.
2. Crew Response:
• The flight crew’s swift action to initiate an emergency descent and divert to Detroit reflects adherence to standard emergency protocols.
3. Post-Landing Actions:
• Ground crews conducted thorough inspections to identify and rectify the pressurization issue.
Follow-Up Actions
1. FAA Investigation:
• The FAA has initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the pressurization failure.
2. Maintenance and Inspection:
• Detailed examination of the aircraft’s environmental control and pressurization systems was performed before returning the aircraft to service.
3. Passenger Feedback:
• United Airlines is expected to review passenger experiences and provide appropriate assistance to those affected by the incident.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of robust pressurization systems and the critical role of crew training in managing emergencies. The prompt actions of the crew ensured the safety of all passengers and crew on board.
Disclaimer
This report is based on information available as of January 13, 2025. Updates will be provided as new details emerge. If you are the rightful owner of any associated media and wish for it to be removed, please contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
