Incident Overview
While the aircraft was in en route cruise, a failure occurred in the elevator hydraulic line associated with the number two hydraulic system. This failure led to a loss of hydraulic fluid and a subsequent loss of pressurization in the number two system. The loss of pressurization meant that the number two system could no longer provide hydraulic power for its intended functions. As a direct result, the rudder was forced to rely solely on the number one hydraulic system for its activation, as the number two system was no longer operational.
Subsequent Actions
After the hydraulic failure, the landing gear was lowered manually, indicating that normal hydraulic extension was not possible or was not used. The aircraft then landed without any further incidents. However, due to the loss of the number two system, the nose wheel steering was rendered inoperative. Consequently, the aircraft had to be towed from the runway to clear the area.
Investigation Findings
The investigation into the incident could not positively determine the root cause of the hydraulic line failure. The specific reason for the line's failure remains undetermined.