Date: 25th November 2024
Location: Lihue Airport, Hawaii, USA
Aircraft: Boeing 757-200, registration N21108
Operator: United Airlines
Flight Number: UA-2307
Route: Denver, Colorado, to Lihue, Hawaii
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 25th November 2024, United Airlines flight UA-2307, a Boeing 757-200 operating from Denver to Lihue, encountered a flaps problem during its approach to Lihue’s Runway 35. At approximately 1,200 feet MSL, the crew initiated a go-around and later positioned the aircraft for a second approach. After resolving the issue, the aircraft landed safely with emergency services on standby. No injuries were reported.
Passengers on board observed the flaps stuck at 15 degrees during the initial approach. After troubleshooting, the crew successfully resolved the issue and completed the landing at a normal speed. Emergency services inspected the brakes and the aircraft at the stand.
Aircraft Information
The Boeing 757-200 is a narrow-body, twin-engine aircraft widely used for medium-haul routes. Its flaps system is hydraulically actuated, with several redundancy measures to ensure safe operation. Flap settings affect approach speed, landing performance, and go-around procedures.
Sequence of Events
1. Initial Approach:
• The aircraft was on final approach to Runway 35 when the crew encountered an issue with the flaps, reportedly stuck at 15 degrees.
• At approximately 1,200 feet MSL, the crew initiated a go-around.
2. Troubleshooting:
• The crew announced the flaps issue to passengers and left the flaps extended during troubleshooting.
• The issue was resolved in-flight, and the crew prepared for a second approach.
3. Landing:
• The aircraft executed a normal-speed landing on Runway 35 with emergency services on standby.
• Emergency crews inspected the brakes after landing.
4. Post-Landing Actions:
• The flaps were left in the extended position until the aircraft reached the gate, where maintenance teams conducted further inspections.
Initial Findings
Possible Causes of Flaps Issue
1. Hydraulic System Malfunction:
• A failure in the hydraulic system that actuates the flaps could have prevented proper retraction or extension.
2. Mechanical Obstruction:
• Physical blockage or mechanical wear in the flaps assembly may have caused the flaps to stick.
3. Electrical Fault:
• An issue in the flap control circuitry or sensors may have sent erroneous commands or failed to actuate the system.
Maintenance Actions
• Inspection of hydraulic actuators and reservoirs for leaks or blockages.
• Examination of the flaps assembly for wear, damage, or obstructions.
• Diagnostic tests on the flaps control system and associated wiring.
• Verification of cockpit indications to identify any anomalies in flap position reporting.
Safety Risks
1. Increased Landing Speed:
• A restricted flap configuration increases landing speed, requiring longer runway distances and increasing wear on brakes and tires.
2. Go-Around Complications:
• Handling and performance may be compromised during a go-around with reduced or asymmetrical flap settings.
3. Operational Disruptions:
• Flap issues can result in diversions or delays, affecting schedules and passenger satisfaction.
Recommendations
1. System Inspections:
• Regular checks and maintenance of hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical components in the flaps system.
2. Crew Training:
• Reinforce training on handling abnormal flap configurations during approaches and landings.
3. Monitoring and Reporting:
• Implement real-time monitoring of flap performance to detect and address anomalies before departure.
4. Review Maintenance Records:
• Investigate any history of flap-related issues in the fleet to identify potential recurring problems.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This event highlights the importance of effective crew response and robust aircraft systems to handle in-flight mechanical anomalies. The crew’s decision to execute a go-around and resolve the issue ensured the safety of all on board, demonstrating the effectiveness of standard operating procedures.
Disclaimer
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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.
