Ryanair Pilots' 'Major Error' During Fuel Leak Diversion to Stansted Airport
Pilots operating a Ryanair flight from Venice to Manchester committed a significant error during an emergency diversion to Stansted Airport caused by a fuel leak, according to a recent investigative report. The incident, which occurred on April 24 last year, involved a Boeing 737 Max aircraft that was forced to land early after fuel was observed spilling from its right main engine.
Investigation Reveals Critical Safety Lapses
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) conducted a thorough probe into the event, uncovering that the pilots were slow to recognize the potential for a fuel leak. More alarmingly, they increased the risk of a fire by failing to shut off the affected engine and using thrust reversers to decelerate the plane upon landing. Investigators emphasized that this action could have dispersed leaking fuel onto hot engine components, potentially igniting a blaze.
Sequence of Events Leading to Diversion
The flight initially faced a one-hour delay due to a company computer system failure. During this period, the pilots detected a fuel imbalance between the main tanks. They performed a fuel balancing procedure from memory before departure, without further delay. Once airborne and at a cruise altitude of 38,000 feet, the commander noticed the imbalance reoccurring, prompting another cross-feed of fuel into the right engine.
Approximately 20 minutes later, the pilots observed the right fuel tank depleting rapidly, with an imbalance of about 100 kilograms every 10 minutes, clearly indicating a leak. Despite this, they opted to divert to Stansted Airport without shutting down the engine, citing favorable weather conditions and an estimated diversion time of only 20 minutes.
Failure to Follow Emergency Protocols
At this critical juncture, the pilots discontinued using the emergency checklist, proceeding to land the aircraft safely with no injuries or damage. The AAIB report later concluded that adhering to the checklist would have advised engine shutdown to mitigate fire hazards. Upon exiting the runway, firefighters confirmed fuel was leaking from the right engine, and the aircraft was towed to the terminal for passenger disembarkation.
Ryanair has been approached for comment on the findings, but no statement has been issued at this time. This incident underscores the importance of strict adherence to safety procedures in aviation emergencies to prevent potential disasters.
