Incident Overview
• Date: January 19th, 2025
• Aircraft: Boeing 777-300
• Registration: PH-BVP
• Operator: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Flight Number: KL-743
• Route: Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Lima (Peru)
• Event: Rejected takeoff at low speed due to reported noise
• Outcome: Aircraft safely vacated the runway; replacement aircraft deployed
Summary of Events
KLM flight KL-743, a scheduled service from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) to Lima (LIM), initiated takeoff from runway 24. Shortly after beginning the takeoff roll, the crew rejected the takeoff at a low speed (~15 knots) due to a loud bang heard by both the crew and tower. Although there were no immediate indications of any technical anomalies, the crew reported unusual feedback on steering and rudder.
The aircraft safely vacated the runway and taxied to the apron for further inspection. Emergency services and ground personnel inspected the aircraft but found no visible issues. A replacement Boeing 777-300, registration PH-BVO, was dispatched, allowing the flight to reach its destination with a delay of 3.5 hours.
Timeline of Events
1. Takeoff Initiation:
• The aircraft began its takeoff roll on runway 24 at low speed (~15 knots).
2. Unusual Noise Reported:
• Both the flight crew and tower reported hearing a loud bang.
• The crew experienced unusual feedback on the steering and rudder but observed no cockpit indications of a fault.
3. Rejected Takeoff:
• The takeoff was safely aborted; the aircraft vacated the runway without incident.
4. Ground Inspection:
• Emergency services and subsequent inspections found no visible anomalies with the aircraft.
5. Flight Resumption:
• A replacement Boeing 777-300 was dispatched, enabling passengers to continue their journey.
Aircraft and Operational Details
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 777-300
• Registration: PH-BVP
• Age and Maintenance: The aircraft’s maintenance records will be reviewed as part of the investigation.
• Replacement Aircraft: PH-BVO
• Departed AMS about 3.5 hours later, completing the journey to Lima.
Initial Findings
• Cause of the Bang:
• The source of the reported bang remains unclear. It could involve runway debris, gear-related noise, or an external factor.
• Aircraft Handling:
• The crew acted in accordance with safety protocols, rejecting takeoff when uncertainty arose.
• Post-Incident Condition:
• The occurrence aircraft remains grounded for further inspection at Schiphol Airport.
Safety Considerations
1. Preliminary Inspection Results:
• No visible anomalies or immediate mechanical issues were found.
2. Runway Condition:
• The runway will likely be inspected for potential foreign object debris (FOD) that could have caused the reported bang.
3. Aircraft Systems:
• A thorough systems check, including landing gear, rudder systems, and engines, will be conducted.
Next Steps
• Inspection:
• The grounded aircraft (PH-BVP) will undergo detailed technical evaluations to identify any potential issues.
• Analysis:
• Investigators will review flight data and voice recordings to understand the cause of the unusual noise and feedback.
• Preventative Measures:
• Any findings will be incorporated into operational procedures and maintenance practices to mitigate recurrence.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of crew vigilance and adherence to safety protocols during takeoff. Despite no immediate indication of a fault, the crew’s decision to reject takeoff prioritised passenger safety. Further investigation will determine the exact cause of the reported noise and unusual feedback.
Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available information as of January 20th, 2025. For copyright concerns, contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
