Engine Power Management Computer Malfunction Causes Flight Cancellation at Düsseldorf

Casualties unknown • Düsseldorf (EDDL), PL

A Boeing 737-400 flight was cancelled at Düsseldorf Airport after a Master Caution alert during takeoff roll revealed a malfunction in the engine power management computer.

What happened

On August 12, 2019, during the takeoff roll at Düsseldorf Airport (EDDL), the crew of a Boeing 737-400 observed a MASTER CAUTION "ENG" alert. The alert appeared after the engines had stabilized but prior to the activation of the TO/GA (Takeoff/Go-Around) buttons. Upon evaluating the situation, the crew identified a PMC INOP indication regarding engine number 2 and elected to abort the takeoff.

The aircraft returned to stand V43, and technical services were requested. Following a 90-minute delay, it was determined that neither of the two available local maintenance providers had personnel licensed to work on the Boeing 737-400. After consulting with LOT Operations Control Center (OCC), the decision was made to cancel the flight.

The investigation

The investigation, conducted by the operator, focused on the technical failure and the subsequent maintenance response. Technical personnel were eventually dispatched from Warsaw to inspect the aircraft. The inspection identified a malfunction within the Power Management Computer (PMC).

Findings

  • The primary cause of the incident was a malfunction of the Power Management Computer (PMC).
  • Because the system's functionality is maintained by an alternative, redundant system, and no immediate threat to flight safety was identified, maintenance crews cleared the aircraft for service following the repair.

Probable cause

The incident was caused by a malfunction in the engine power management computer (PMC).

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2019-08-12 BOEING, 737-400 accident near Düsseldorf (EDDL), PL?

A Boeing 737-400 flight was cancelled at Düsseldorf Airport after a Master Caution alert during takeoff roll revealed a malfunction in the engine power management computer.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2019-08-12 involved a BOEING, 737-400, registration SP-LLE, operated by Pilot samolotowy liniowy ATPL, at Düsseldorf (EDDL), PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The incident was caused by a malfunction in the engine power management computer (PMC).

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2019-3497/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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