Introduction
On 18 March 2025, a JetBlue Bombardier C-Series CS-300, registration N3185J, operating flight B6-2393 from Boston Logan International Airport (KBOS) to Denver International Airport (KDEN), experienced hydraulic issues shortly after reaching cruising altitude. The crew declared a return to Boston, holding for over an hour before landing safely on runway 33L, which was specially reopened for the emergency arrival.
The FAA has launched an investigation into the occurrence.
Flight & Incident Overview
• Aircraft: Bombardier C-Series CS-300 (Airbus A220-300)
• Operator: JetBlue Airways
• Registration: N3185J
• Flight Number: B6-2393
• Route: Boston Logan (KBOS) → Denver International (KDEN)
• Date: 18 March 2025
• Occupants: Unknown
• Injuries: None reported
• Final Outcome: Aircraft returned safely to Boston Logan after holding for 65 minutes
Sequence of Events
1. Departure & Climb
• The JetBlue Airbus A220-300 departed Boston Logan Airport for Denver.
• Climbed to FL340 before encountering hydraulic issues.
2. Hydraulic Failure & Decision to Return
• Shortly after reaching FL340, the crew identified a hydraulic system failure.
• Declared an emergency and requested an immediate return to Boston Logan Airport.
3. Runway Selection & Holding Pattern
• Due to prevailing northerly winds, the crew requested runway 33L, which was closed at the time.
• Boston ATC coordinated the reopening of the runway, allowing the aircraft to land into the wind.
• The aircraft entered a holding pattern for approximately 65 minutes, likely to burn fuel and prepare for the emergency landing.
4. Safe Landing & FAA Investigation
• Landed safely on runway 33L approximately 2.5 hours after departure.
• The FAA confirmed the aircraft returned due to mechanical issues and will conduct a full investigation.
Investigation & Findings
1. Hydraulic System Failure
• The specific nature of the hydraulic issue remains unknown, but failures in hydraulic pumps, actuators, or reservoirs are common contributors to such events.
• Loss of hydraulic power can affect flight controls, landing gear extension/retraction, or braking systems.
2. ATC & Operational Coordination
• The Boston Logan control tower and airport operations worked swiftly to reopen runway 33L, ensuring the aircraft had the safest possible approach.
• The crew remained in a hold for over an hour, which suggests they were troubleshooting procedures and waiting for the runway to be fully prepared.
3. No Reported Injuries or Aircraft Damage
• The landing was uneventful, with no reports of damage to the aircraft or injuries to passengers or crew.
• The aircraft was likely towed to a maintenance facility for inspection and repairs.
Conclusion
JetBlue flight B6-2393 suffered hydraulic problems shortly after reaching cruise altitude, prompting an emergency return to Boston Logan Airport. The aircraft held for 65 minutes before landing safely on a temporarily reopened runway 33L. The FAA is investigating the cause of the hydraulic failure.
The crew and ATC handled the emergency effectively, ensuring a safe outcome.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on publicly available information as of 18 March 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness of the information provided. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
