Incident Overview
On January 12, 2009, at 1545 Coordinated Universal Time, an easyJet Boeing 737-73V, registered in the United Kingdom as G-EZJK, experienced a violent pitch down during flight. The maximum operating speed (Vmo) was exceeded by 100 knots, and a 10,000 foot loss of altitude occurred. The aircraft recovered from the maneuver and landed safely. There were no passengers on board; four flight crewmembers were on the aircraft. None of the flight crewmembers were injured.
Investigation
The investigation is being conducted by the United Kingdom's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) designated a U.S. Accredited Representative to assist the AAIB in their investigation.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft involved was a Boeing 737-73V, registered as G-EZJK, operated by easyJet. The flight crew comprised four members, and there were no passengers. No injuries were reported among the crew.