Overview
• Operator: Jazz Aviation on behalf of Air Canada
• Aircraft Model: Canadair CRJ-900
• Registration: C-FJZN
• Flight Number: QK-901 / AC-8901
• Route: Toronto (Canada) → Chicago O’Hare (USA)
• Date: 1 February 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Nature of Incident: False lavatory fire alarm on final approach
Incident Summary
Jazz Aviation flight QK-901 / AC-8901, a CRJ-900 (C-FJZN) operating on behalf of Air Canada, was on final approach to Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD) runway 09L when the crew received a fire alarm from the aft lavatory. The crew declared PAN PAN and proceeded with a normal landing at Chicago.
Upon landing, no smoke was observed. A flight attendant checked the lavatory door and found it cool. The captain investigated further and discovered that the mirror was warm. After removing the mirror, it was found that a heat duct had become detached, triggering the fire alarm.
Contract maintenance personnel were called in to re-attach the heat duct, and the aircraft was inspected before returning to service.
Sequence of Events
1. Final Approach & Alarm Activation
• The aircraft was on final approach to Chicago O’Hare’s runway 09L when the crew received an aft lavatory fire alarm.
• The crew declared PAN PAN, indicating an urgent but non-emergency situation.
2. Landing & Initial Inspection
• The aircraft landed safely and taxied to the gate without incident.
• No smoke was visible in the cabin or lavatory.
3. Crew & Maintenance Investigation
• A flight attendant touched the lavatory door and found it cool, indicating no active fire.
• The captain personally inspected the lavatory, found the mirror warm, and removed it.
• Behind the mirror, the heat duct was found disconnected, which likely triggered the fire alarm.
4. Resolution & Aircraft Return to Service
• Contract maintenance was called to re-attach the heat duct.
• The aircraft was cleared for service after necessary checks.
Analysis & Contributing Factors
• False Fire Alarm Due to Detached Heat Duct
• The detached heat duct behind the lavatory mirror caused heat buildup, which triggered the fire alarm sensor.
• No actual fire or overheating of aircraft components was found.
• Crew Response & Safety Measures
• The crew’s decision to continue approach while declaring PAN PAN ensured a controlled and precautionary landing.
• The flight attendant’s quick response and captain’s hands-on inspection prevented unnecessary emergency evacuation or disruption.
• Possible Maintenance Oversight
• The heat duct may have been improperly secured during previous maintenance, leading to its detachment mid-flight.
Safety Recommendations
1. Enhanced Inspection of Lavatory Heat Systems
• Routine maintenance should include checks on the lavatory heat ducts to ensure they remain securely attached.
2. Cabin Crew Training for Fire Alarm Responses
• Cabin crew should be trained to assess fire alarms by checking for heat, smoke, and door temperatures before escalating incidents.
3. Monitoring & Reporting of Recurring Issues
• Operators should monitor for recurring issues related to lavatory heat systems and report findings to regulatory authorities if necessary.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 5 February 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.
