What happened
On April 27, 2016, a Bombardier DHC 8-402 (Q400), registration G-ECOP, was operating a scheduled passenger flight from Exeter to Dublin. While the aircraft was entering the Dublin Air Traffic Control Area near the VATRY reporting point, the co-pilot requested to leave the flight deck to use the lavatory. Just as the co-pilot was preparing to depart, the aircraft experienced a sudden, unexpected upset characterized by a yaw and a left-wing roll of approximately 18 degrees.
The captain immediately disconnected the autopilot and worked to stabilize the aircraft. During this period, the captain discovered that the co-pilot had become unresponsive and had effectively lost consciousness. The captain then declared a PAN (Urgency) call to Dublin Air Traffic Control, requesting priority handling for an approach to Runway 28. To manage the situation, the cabin crew assisted in securing the incapacitated co-pilot in his seat, and a cabin crew member moved to the flight deck jump-seat to assist with the landing. The aircraft landed safely at Dublin Airport with no injuries to the 33 passengers or the crew.
The investigation
The AAIU investigation focused on the medical circumstances of the co-pilot and the crew's response to the emergency. Medical findings determined that the co-pilot had suffered a brief episode of syncope caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure. The investigation also looked into the aircraft's mechanical state, finding no evidence of rudder trim runaway or other technical malfunctions.
Investigators also reviewed the operator's emergency procedures. While the crew performed the necessary incapacitation drills effectively, the investigation noted that the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) contained an incorrect manual reference. Additionally, a minor issue was identified regarding the connectivity of the headset jack at the flight deck jump-seat, which hindered the cabin crew's initial communication setup.
Findings
- The aircraft upset was caused by an involuntary rudder pedal input made by the co-pilot as he became unwell.
- The co-pilot's loss of consciousness was attributed to a sudden drop in blood pressure (syncope).
- Potential contributing factors included recent sleep disruption and personal stress related to a family medical appointment.
- The crew demonstrated effective Crew Resource Management (CRM) by coordinating the cabin and flight deck to ensure a safe landing.