Overview
On December 23rd, 2024, a Swiss International Airlines Bombardier CS-300 (Airbus A220-300), registration HB-JCD, performing flight LX-1885 from Bucharest Otopeni (Romania) to Zurich (Switzerland), suffered an uncontained engine failure in its left-hand engine (PW1524G), causing smoke in the cockpit and cabin. The aircraft diverted to Graz Airport (Austria), landing safely on runway 34. A subsequent evacuation revealed significant injuries, including the death of a flight attendant on December 30th, 2024, attributed to hypoxic brain damage.
Incident Details
Flight Information
• Aircraft Type: Bombardier CS-300 (Airbus A220-300)
• Registration: HB-JCD
• Operator: Swiss International Airlines
• Flight Number: LX-1885
• Route: Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Zurich (ZRH)
• Occupants: 74 passengers, 5 crew
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The aircraft was cruising at FL400, approximately 20nm east-northeast of Graz, when the crew detected smoke in the cockpit and cabin.
2. Diversion Decision:
• The crew declared an emergency and diverted to Graz Airport, initiating a rapid descent.
3. Landing and Evacuation:
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 34 and stopped on the runway.
• Passengers and crew evacuated using emergency slides.
4. Casualties and Injuries:
• A flight attendant was airlifted to a hospital and later died from hypoxic brain damage.
• 17 passengers and several crew members required medical attention, with some admitted to hospitals.
Findings
Engine Failure
• The left-hand PW1524G engine experienced an uncontained failure, resulting in an oil leak and subsequent seizure of the engine.
• The engine’s main shaft was found fractured, and the engine is being replaced.
Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE) Concerns
• The deceased flight attendant wore a Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE), which may have contributed to the fatality.
• The airline had identified issues with the PBEs in 2023 and initiated replacements, though the process was incomplete.
Autopsy Results
• The autopsy revealed brain oedema and hypoxic brain damage, indicating prolonged oxygen deprivation.
• The flight attendant also suffered from septic bronchitis and had an enlarged heart, which may have exacerbated the situation.
Investigation Updates
• Both Austrian and Swiss authorities are investigating the incident, focusing on:
• Engine mechanics and failure modes
• Effectiveness and safety of PBEs
• Potential underlying health issues of the deceased crew member
Key Issues
1. Engine Failure and Smoke:
• The uncontained engine failure caused significant smoke, requiring immediate diversion and emergency response.
2. PBE Effectiveness:
• The malfunctioning PBE system may have impeded the crew’s ability to manage the situation safely.
3. Health and Safety Protocols:
• The incident raises concerns about the adequacy of pre-flight health checks and emergency equipment maintenance schedules.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection and Maintenance:
• Conduct thorough inspections of PW1524G engines to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities in oil systems and main shafts.
2. PBE Replacement:
• Expedite the replacement of all Protective Breathing Equipment across the fleet to ensure compliance with safety standards.
3. Crew Health Monitoring:
• Introduce enhanced health screening protocols for crew members to identify underlying conditions that may affect their performance during emergencies.
4. Emergency Response Training:
• Reinforce crew training to handle smoke emergencies effectively, including proper use of PBEs and coordination during evacuation.
Conclusion
The uncontained engine failure aboard Swiss flight LX-1885 highlights critical vulnerabilities in engine reliability and emergency equipment functionality. While the crew managed the situation effectively, the loss of life underscores the need for urgent review of safety protocols and equipment standards.
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.
