Overview
• Operator: Ryanair
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: EI-EVE
• Flight Number: FR-1023
• Route: Dublin (Ireland) to Budapest (Hungary)
• Date: 25 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Injuries: None reported
• Damage: None reported
Incident Summary
Ryanair flight FR-1023, operated by a Boeing 737-800, was conducting an approach to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) when the crew identified a flaps malfunction. The pilots discontinued the initial approach and requested to enter a holding pattern to troubleshoot the issue.
After assessing the situation, the crew declared an emergency and advised ATC that they would perform a high-speed landing. The aircraft safely landed on runway 13R at an increased approach speed of approximately 165 knots. Emergency services were placed on standby and conducted a post-landing brake and gear inspection before the aircraft taxied to the apron.
The aircraft remained on the ground for 5.5 hours before resuming operations.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach and Holding Pattern
• The aircraft was initially cleared for approach to runway 13R at Budapest.
• The crew identified a flaps malfunction, preventing normal extension.
• ATC was informed, and the aircraft entered a holding pattern to allow troubleshooting.
2. Emergency Declaration and Landing
• The crew determined that the flaps could not be deployed properly and advised ATC of a high-speed landing requirement.
• Emergency services were placed on standby for a potential runway overrun or brake fire.
• The aircraft executed a safe landing at approximately 165 knots over ground, which is higher than standard approach speeds for the Boeing 737-800.
3. Post-Landing Inspection and Grounding
• The aircraft vacated the runway without incident and taxied to the apron.
• Emergency services inspected the brakes and landing gear for signs of excessive heat or structural stress.
• The aircraft remained on the ground for 5.5 hours before being cleared for departure.
Investigation and Safety Measures
• Cause of the Flaps Malfunction
• The exact cause of the flap issue remains under investigation.
• Possible factors include hydraulic system failure, electrical faults, or mechanical obstruction.
• Flap Asymmetry and High-Speed Landing Risks
• A flap failure or asymmetry can increase landing distance requirements and affect aircraft handling.
• The crew’s decision to enter a hold and conduct a controlled high-speed landing aligns with standard safety protocols.
• Maintenance Inspection and Airline Response
• Ryanair maintenance teams conducted post-incident checks, focusing on flap actuators, hydraulic pressure systems, and control linkages.
• No immediate mechanical damage was reported.
Regulatory and Airline Response
• Ryanair Statement
• The airline confirmed the aircraft experienced a flap malfunction but landed without incident.
• No passengers or crew sustained injuries, and passengers were rebooked on their return flights as necessary.
• Hungarian Aviation Authorities
• The Hungarian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) was informed of the incident.
• No formal investigation has been announced, as the incident was categorized as a minor technical failure with no operational risk to passengers.
Safety Considerations and Recommendations
• Flap System Maintenance
• Boeing 737 operators are advised to regularly inspect flap track mechanisms and hydraulic actuators for wear and potential failure points.
• Pre-flight operational checks should include verifying flap response in alignment with aircraft system diagnostics.
• Flight Crew Decision-Making
• The Ryanair crew followed proper safety protocols by holding for troubleshooting before committing to a landing.
• Pilots should always assess landing speeds and required runway distances when dealing with flap issues.
• Passenger Awareness and Communication
• Passengers should be briefed on high-speed landings to reduce panic or confusion in case of emergency.
• Airlines should ensure clear post-incident communication to minimize concerns regarding future flight safety.
Aircraft Status and Next Steps
• The Boeing 737-800 remained grounded for 5.5 hours before it was cleared for further operations.
• Ryanair engineers conducted detailed system diagnostics before approving the aircraft’s return to service.
• The airline will monitor the aircraft’s flap system performance to prevent recurrence.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 27 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.
