Overview
• Operator: Norwegian Air Shuttle
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: LN-NGD
• Flight Number: DY-9323
• Route: Las Palmas (LPA) to Stavanger (SVG)
• Date: 1 March 2025
• Occupants: Unknown
• Casualties: None
• Nature of Incident: Flaps malfunction resulting in a high-speed, flaps-up landing
Incident Summary
A Norwegian Air Shuttle Boeing 737-800, operating flight DY-9323 from Las Palmas to Stavanger, encountered a flap system failure during approach.
The crew stopped the descent at 3000 feet and entered a holding pattern to troubleshoot the issue.
After determining the flaps were inoperative, the crew declared an emergency and prepared for a flaps-up landing.
The aircraft executed a high-speed approach and landed safely on Runway 18 at Stavanger at approximately 193 knots ground speed.
After remaining at the runway end for about 5 minutes, the aircraft taxied to the apron without further incident.
The aircraft was inspected and returned to service approximately 14 hours later.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The flight proceeded normally from Las Palmas to Stavanger.
• No technical issues were reported before descent.
Flaps Malfunction & Holding Pattern:
• During approach to Stavanger, the crew attempted to deploy the flaps but encountered an issue.
• The descent was stopped at 3000 feet, and the crew entered a hold to troubleshoot the flap system.
• After unsuccessful attempts to rectify the issue, the crew prepared for a flaps-up landing.
Flaps Up Landing Procedure:
• The crew declared an emergency and briefed air traffic control about the high-speed approach.
• The aircraft positioned for Runway 18 at Stavanger and conducted a flaps-up landing at 193 knots ground speed.
• The aircraft remained at the end of the runway for about 5 minutes before taxiing to the apron.
Investigation & Findings
Possible Causes of Flap Failure:
While the official cause remains under investigation, common reasons for flap system malfunctions in Boeing 737 aircraft include:
1. Flap actuator failure or hydraulic leak, preventing flap extension.
2. Electrical failure in the flap control system, rendering the flaps inoperative.
3. Flap position sensor malfunction, causing incorrect readings and system lockout.
4. Flap track or slat mechanism obstruction, physically preventing flap movement.
Impact of Flaps-Up Landing:
• Increased landing speed – Due to the lack of extended flaps, the aircraft required a much higher approach speed (193 knots vs. typical 130-150 knots).
• Extended braking distance – The aircraft relied heavily on wheel brakes and reversers to decelerate on the runway.
• Higher landing forces – The increased speed increased wear on the landing gear and brakes.
Aircraft Inspection & Return to Service:
• Post-landing inspections were conducted to assess potential structural or brake damage.
• The aircraft returned to service approximately 14 hours later, indicating no major repairs were required.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
For Airlines & Maintenance Teams:
• Regular inspections of flap systems to detect wear and prevent failures.
• Improved crew training on flaps-up landing procedures to ensure effective emergency handling.
• Enhanced monitoring of hydraulic and electrical systems to prevent flap-related issues.
For Flight Crews:
• Immediate troubleshooting of flap failures to determine whether alternate extension methods are available.
• Careful approach planning for flaps-up landings to ensure safe deceleration on landing.
• Effective communication with ATC and emergency services for coordinated response and post-landing assistance.
For Boeing & Aircraft Manufacturers:
• Assess reliability of flap actuation systems to identify potential failure points.
• Investigate historical Boeing 737 flap failures to determine whether similar patterns exist.
• Explore backup flap extension mechanisms to provide redundancy in case of primary system failure.
Conclusion
This flaps-up landing at Stavanger highlights the importance of crew training and procedural adherence in handling high-speed landings.
The Norwegian crew’s prompt decision-making and emergency planning ensured a safe outcome, despite the increased landing challenges.
The aircraft’s rapid return to service suggests the issue was minor, though further investigation may identify underlying causes.
This incident reinforces the necessity for continued monitoring and maintenance of aircraft flap systems to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 3 March 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.”
