Overview
On January 4th, 2025, a BA Euroflyer Airbus A321-200, registration G-EUXF, operating flight BA-2670 from London Gatwick (UK) to Palma Mallorca (Spain), returned to Gatwick Airport after the crew reported smoke in the cabin while cruising at FL350 near Le Mans, France. The aircraft landed safely on Gatwick’s runway 26L approximately 65 minutes after departure, with emergency services in attendance.
Incident Details
Flight Information
• Aircraft Type: Airbus A321-200
• Registration: G-EUXF
• Operator: BA Euroflyer
• Flight Number: BA-2670
• Route: London Gatwick (LGW) to Palma Mallorca (PMI)
• Persons on Board: Not disclosed
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The flight was at FL350 near Le Mans, France, when the crew detected smoke in the cabin.
2. Decision to Return:
• The crew decided to turn back to Gatwick, declaring the smoke as an “ongoing situation.”
3. Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 26L at Gatwick Airport.
• The crew requested a remote stand to expedite passenger deboarding.
4. After Landing:
• Emergency services and ground crews attended the aircraft immediately upon landing.
• The runway was inspected for any potential contamination or debris.
Post-Incident Actions
1. Aircraft Inspection:
• Maintenance crews have begun a detailed inspection of the aircraft to identify the source of the smoke.
• Specific attention is being paid to the cabin systems, air conditioning packs, electrical systems, and potential fluid leaks.
2. Passenger Management:
• Passengers were safely deboarded and provided with alternative travel arrangements.
3. Aircraft Grounding:
• The aircraft remains out of service at Gatwick approximately 32 hours after the incident.
Potential Causes
1. Air Conditioning or Environmental Control System (ECS) Malfunction
• Faults in the ECS, such as pack failure or a leak in the air conditioning system, are common contributors to smoke or odour events.
2. Electrical Faults
• A short circuit, overheating, or arcing within cabin systems could produce smoke.
3. Fluid Leaks
• Leaking oil or hydraulic fluids entering the bleed air system may create smoke or vapours in the cabin.
Crew Actions
• Decision to Return:
• The crew acted decisively by returning to the nearest suitable airport to mitigate potential risks.
• Communication:
• The crew ensured clear communication with ATC, emergency services, and passengers, requesting appropriate measures such as a remote stand.
• Landing Execution:
• The safe landing and expeditious deboarding highlight adherence to emergency protocols.
Recommendations
1. Inspection and Maintenance:
• Perform a thorough inspection of the air conditioning packs, cabin systems, and bleed air systems.
• Check for electrical faults or fluid leaks in the affected areas.
2. Training:
• Ensure all flight crews are proficient in handling smoke or fire-related emergencies, including appropriate use of checklists and communication protocols.
3. Fleet-Wide Checks:
• Review maintenance records for similar occurrences within the BA Euroflyer fleet, focusing on A321-200 systems.
Conclusion
The smoke in the cabin reported on BA Euroflyer flight BA-2670 prompted a safe return to London Gatwick, where passengers were deboarded without further incident. The cause of the smoke is under investigation, with a focus on cabin systems and air conditioning packs. Crew actions ensured the safety of all onboard, highlighting effective response to in-flight emergencies.
Disclaimer
This report is based on facts available at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologise for any missed details or inaccuracies. If you are the rightful owner of any associated images and wish for their removal, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
