A332, en-route, North Atlantic, 2019

A332, en-route, North Atlantic, 2019

Summary

On 6 February 2019, an Airbus A330-200 Captain’s Audio Control Panel (ACP) malfunctioned and began to emit smoke and electrical fumes after coffee was spilt on it. Subsequently, the right side ACP also failed, becoming hot enough to begin melting its plastic. Given the consequent significant communications difficulties, a turnback to Shannon was with both pilots taking turns to go on oxygen. The Investigation found that flight deck drinks were routinely served in unlidded cups with the cup size in use incompatible with the available cup holders. Pending provision of suitably-sized cups, the operator decided to begin providing cup lids.

Description

On 6 February 2019, an Airbus A330-200 (G-TCCF) being operated by Condor on a scheduled international passenger flight from Frankfurt to Cancun, Mexico, was in the cruise west of Ireland when a cup of coffee which had been placed on the Captain’s tray table was knocked over and some of its contents ended up on the left side Avionics Control Panel (ACP) which immediately malfunctioned. This unit subsequently became very hot and emitted an electrical burning smell. When the right side ACP also began to malfunction and the left side unit began to emit smoke, the resulting communications difficulties led to a decision to divert to the nearest available airport, Shannon, with the pilots alternately using oxygen. No emergency was declared but the diversion was accomplished without further event.

Investigation

An Investigation was carried out by the UK AAIB. It was noted that the 49 year-old Captain, had a total of 13,135 flying hours which included 1,050 hours on type. The experience of the other pilot, who had been PF at the time, was not recorded.

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