Incident Overview
As the airplane rotated for liftoff from Seattle, the captain observed that the EICAS 'EMERGENCY DOOR' light had illuminated. According to the Airplane Flight Manual, if pressurization is normal (which it was), the crew need not take further action. The flight proceeded without additional cockpit intervention.
Descent and Landing
During the descent for landing, a flight attendant reported hearing a loud noise emanating from the left side of the airplane. The airplane subsequently landed uneventfully at Denver.
Post-Flight Inspection
An inspection disclosed that the left off-wing slide had separated from the airplane. The separation caused minor damage to the access door, flap, and fuselage skin.
Previous Maintenance
The off-wing slide had been routinely replaced the previous evening by a mechanic. The mechanic used a flashlight and referenced the airplane maintenance manuals during the installation. After installing the slide, the mechanic closed the panel and placed the actuator handle in the horizontal position, as per instructions placarded on the maintenance access door. The mechanic stated that he had never received any training for installing the off-wing slide.
Similar Incidents
There have been four similar incidents since the airplane entered commercial service. These occurrences prompted the manufacturer to issue Service Bulletin S.B. 757-25-0182.