Date: 21st November 2024
Location: Near Bucharest, Romania
Aircraft: Boeing 737-700, registration YR-BGG
Flight Number: RO-381
Operator: TAROM (Romanian Air Transport)
Flight Route: Bucharest Otopeni (Romania) to Paris Charles de Gaulle (France)
Passengers: 121 (approximate)
Crew: 6
Summary of Events
On 21st November 2024, TAROM Flight RO-381, a Boeing 737-700 en route from Bucharest Otopeni to Paris Charles de Gaulle, returned to Bucharest shortly after departure due to an issue with the aircraft’s environmental control system packs. The crew reported the issue to air traffic control (ATC) approximately 130 nautical miles northwest of Bucharest, at cruising altitude (FL320), and initiated a return to the departure airport.
The aircraft landed safely on Runway 26L at Bucharest Otopeni Airport approximately 30 minutes after the decision to return. No injuries were reported. The affected aircraft was inspected and returned to service about 8 hours later. Passengers were rebooked on alternate flights to Paris.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The Boeing 737-700 involved, registration YR-BGG, is part of TAROM’s short- and medium-haul fleet. This model is equipped with two air conditioning packs, part of the aircraft’s environmental control system (ECS), which manage cabin pressurisation and temperature.
The flight crew consisted of an experienced captain and first officer, both trained in handling ECS malfunctions. Their prompt decision to return to Bucharest ensured the safety and comfort of passengers.
Sequence of Events
1. Departure and Initial Climb:
Flight RO-381 departed from Bucharest Otopeni Airport on schedule and climbed to its cruising altitude of FL320. The flight was proceeding normally until the crew detected an issue with the ECS packs.
2. Detection of Malfunction:
Approximately 130 nautical miles northwest of Bucharest, the crew identified a malfunction in the packs, which could have affected cabin pressurisation and temperature control. The crew reduced altitude slightly to FL310 and decided to return to Bucharest as a precautionary measure.
3. Return and Safe Landing:
The aircraft landed safely on Runway 26L at Bucharest Otopeni Airport. Emergency services were not required, as the issue was contained, and passengers disembarked normally.
4. Post-Landing Inspection:
Maintenance teams conducted a thorough inspection of the ECS packs and resolved the issue, enabling the aircraft to return to service about 8 hours later.
Environmental Control System (ECS) Overview
The ECS packs are crucial for maintaining cabin pressurisation and regulating air conditioning within the aircraft. Malfunctions in the packs can lead to uncomfortable cabin conditions and, in severe cases, depressurisation.
Typical issues affecting ECS packs include:
• Component Failure: Faults in compressors, valves, or sensors.
• Overheating: Caused by blockages or insufficient cooling airflow.
• Electrical Malfunctions: Faulty wiring or control units.
Investigation and Analysis
The Romanian Civil Aviation Authority, in collaboration with TAROM and Boeing, initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the malfunction. Initial areas of focus include:
1. Pack Malfunction:
Investigators are examining whether the issue was caused by mechanical failure, sensor error, or external factors, such as contamination or damage.
2. Maintenance History:
The investigation includes a review of the aircraft’s maintenance records to ensure compliance with regular inspections and servicing protocols for the ECS.
3. Operational Impact:
The investigation will evaluate the crew’s decision-making and adherence to procedures for managing ECS anomalies.
Passenger and Crew Impact
Passengers were rebooked on alternate flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle, and no injuries or medical issues were reported. While the incident caused delays, TAROM’s handling of the situation ensured passenger safety and comfort remained the top priority.
Conclusions
The ECS pack malfunction experienced by TAROM Flight RO-381 was effectively managed by the crew, resulting in a safe return to Bucharest. The prompt response by maintenance teams allowed the aircraft to return to service within 8 hours, minimising operational disruption.
The incident underscores the importance of robust maintenance and operational protocols for critical aircraft systems like the ECS, which are vital for passenger safety and comfort.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced ECS Maintenance Protocols:
Airlines should reinforce maintenance procedures for environmental control systems, focusing on early detection of potential issues.
2. Crew Training for ECS Malfunctions:
Flight crews should receive regular training on managing ECS-related issues, including decision-making for altitude adjustments and emergency returns.
3. Monitoring and Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic tools should be utilised to monitor ECS performance and detect anomalies before they escalate.
4. Passenger Communication Protocols:
Airlines should ensure that passengers are kept informed during such events to maintain trust and transparency.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This event highlights the critical role of the ECS in modern aircraft and the need for rigorous maintenance and monitoring of such systems. It also reinforces the importance of crew training for managing in-flight malfunctions effectively.
The lessons learned from this investigation will contribute to improving operational standards and safety practices across the industry, particularly for short- and medium-haul operators.
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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.
