Incident Overview
On March 9, 2016, at approximately 1800 UTC, a Learjet 60 XR (registration A6RJE) experienced a bleed air leak during cruise flight near Hamad International Airport (OTHH) in Doha, Qatar. The aircraft sustained minor damage from the incident. The flight crew consisted of two pilots, and there was one flight attendant and four passengers on board; none were injured.
Flight Details
The aircraft had departed from King Khalid International Airport (OERK) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and was en route to Doha International Airport (OTBD) in Qatar. While cruising at Flight Level 190, the crew selected the thermal wing anti-icing system to "ON" in preparation for descent. Shortly thereafter, the flight attendant reported a bad odor, heat, and white smoke in the cabin. The pilots diverted the aircraft to Hamad International Airport, where it landed without further incident.
Investigation Findings
Post-flight examination of the Learjet 60 XR revealed a damaged coupling on the right wing anti-icing duct. The coupling was located behind the right aft sidewall adjacent to the bulkhead. This damage resulted in a bleed air leak that caused the cabin smoke and odor. The incident investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The CAA's Air Safety Department can be contacted for further information.
Aircraft Information
The Learjet 60 XR is a business jet. The specific aircraft involved, registered as A6RJE, was operating a scheduled passenger flight. The exact date of manufacture and total flight hours were not specified in the initial report.