Date: 23rd December 2024
Location: Graz Airport (GRZ), Austria
Aircraft: Bombardier C-Series CS-300 (Airbus A220-300), registration HB-JCD
Operator: Swiss International Airlines
Flight Number: LX-1885
Route: Bucharest Otopeni (Romania) to Zurich (Switzerland)
Occupants: 79 (74 passengers, 5 crew)
Injuries: 1 serious, 29 minor (17 passengers, 12 crew)
Summary of Events
On 23rd December 2024, Swiss International Airlines Flight LX-1885, operated by a Bombardier CS-300, diverted to Graz Airport following reports of smoke in both the cockpit and cabin. The crew declared an emergency while en route at FL400 approximately 20 nautical miles east-northeast of Graz. The aircraft landed safely on Runway 34 about 19 minutes after the decision to divert, where it was evacuated. Emergency services were already on standby.
A rescue helicopter transported a seriously injured flight attendant to a local hospital, where they were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. Additionally, 17 passengers and several crew members required medical attention, with most injuries reported as minor.
Sequence of Events
1. Flight Departure and Cruise:
• LX-1885 departed from Bucharest Otopeni bound for Zurich. The flight progressed normally until reaching FL400 near Graz.
2. Smoke Detected Onboard:
• The crew identified smoke in both the cockpit and cabin. They declared an emergency and coordinated a diversion to Graz Airport.
3. Emergency Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely on Graz’s Runway 34. Emergency services were on standby, and the aircraft was brought to a stop on the runway.
4. Evacuation and Medical Response:
• Passengers and crew were evacuated. Emergency responders treated 17 passengers for minor injuries. A rescue helicopter transported one flight attendant under resuscitation to a hospital.
5. Replacement Flight and Passenger Care:
• Swiss International Airlines dispatched two flights: one carrying a care team and another to transport passengers to Zurich the following morning.
Aircraft Details
• Type: Bombardier C-Series CS-300 (Airbus A220-300)
• Registration: HB-JCD
• Engines: 2x Pratt & Whitney PW1524G
• Configuration: Passenger aircraft
Initial Findings
1. Smoke Source:
• Preliminary reports indicate the smoke was related to engine trouble involving the Pratt & Whitney PW1524G engines.
2. Impact on Occupants:
• Smoke inhalation likely caused the injuries among passengers and crew. Emergency evacuation procedures were executed promptly.
3. Aircraft Status:
• The occurrence aircraft remains grounded at Graz pending a thorough investigation and maintenance checks.
Safety Implications
1. Engine Reliability:
• The PW1524G engine has faced scrutiny in recent years due to various operational issues. This incident may highlight specific vulnerabilities in smoke mitigation and containment.
2. Emergency Response:
• The prompt actions of the crew and emergency services minimized injuries and ensured the safety of all onboard.
3. Passenger Care:
• Swiss International Airlines’ rapid deployment of care teams and replacement flights underscores the importance of passenger support during disruptions.
Recommendations
1. Engine Inspection and Maintenance:
• Conduct a detailed examination of the PW1524G engine involved to determine the root cause of the smoke and ensure other fleet engines are inspected for similar issues.
2. Evacuation Protocols:
• Review and reinforce evacuation procedures to ensure rapid and efficient responses in future incidents.
3. Passenger Communication:
• Enhance communication strategies to keep passengers informed and reassured during emergency situations.
4. Medical Preparedness:
• Review in-flight medical protocols to improve handling of injuries and ensure rapid medical support during evacuations.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the critical importance of early smoke detection, effective emergency protocols, and the value of well-trained crews. The swift and professional response of both the flight and ground teams averted a potentially catastrophic situation, reinforcing the robustness of modern aviation safety systems.
Disclaimer
If you are the rightful owner of the photo and wish it to be taken down, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
