Overview
• Operator: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: PH-BXI
• Flight Number: KL-1252
• Route: Helsinki (Finland) to Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• Date: 31 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Nature of Incident: Trim system malfunction prompting return to Helsinki
• Investigation: Under review by airline maintenance team
Incident Summary
KLM flight KL-1252, a Boeing 737-800, departed Helsinki’s runway 22R en route to Amsterdam when the crew identified an issue with the aircraft’s trim system during the initial climb. As a precaution, the crew requested to level off at 4,000 feet while troubleshooting the problem. After assessing the situation, the crew decided to return to Helsinki.
The aircraft landed safely on runway 22R approximately 45 minutes after departure, and taxied to the apron without further incident.
A passenger on board reported that the crew announced an autopilot issue, suggesting that the trim malfunction may have affected the autopilot’s ability to maintain stable flight control.
Sequence of Events
Departure & Climb Out
• The aircraft departed Helsinki’s runway 22R as per schedule.
• During the initial climb, the crew encountered a trim system issue, impacting the aircraft’s ability to maintain a proper pitch angle.
• The crew requested to level off at 4,000 feet to assess the problem.
Decision to Return
• After troubleshooting, the crew elected to return to Helsinki as a precaution.
• The autopilot system was reportedly affected by the trim issue, requiring manual intervention.
Approach & Landing
• The aircraft entered a holding pattern before being cleared for an approach.
• The landing was executed safely on runway 22R approximately 45 minutes after departure.
• The aircraft taxied to the apron without further complications.
Possible Causes & Technical Analysis
Potential Causes of the Trim Issue
• Autopilot Malfunction: The autopilot relies on the trim system for fine adjustments. A trim failure could lead to an inability to maintain proper pitch control.
• Electric Trim Runaway: A malfunction in the electric trim system could result in continuous nose-up or nose-down inputs, requiring manual override.
• Mechanical Trim Malfunction: Possible failure of the manual trim wheel or jamming of the stabilizer trim system could prevent proper adjustments.
• Sensor Anomalies: Faulty angle-of-attack (AOA) or airspeed sensors could misinform the trim system, leading to incorrect pitch adjustments.
Aircraft Status & Investigation
• The aircraft remained on the ground in Helsinki for over 6 hours after landing.
• KLM’s maintenance team is conducting an inspection of the trim and autopilot systems.
• No official statement has been issued regarding whether the aircraft will require extensive repairs before returning to service.
• If the issue is systemic, KLM may review trim system inspections for other Boeing 737-800 aircraft in its fleet.
Conclusion & Safety Measures
• The crew acted appropriately by leveling off early, troubleshooting the issue, and making the decision to return to Helsinki safely.
• The incident highlights the importance of trim system reliability, particularly in automated flight operations.
• Further investigation will determine whether this was an isolated mechanical issue or part of a broader maintenance concern.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 31 January 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.
