Landing Gear Indication Error During Approach at Larnaka Airport

Casualties unknown • LCLK, PL

A Boeing 737-800 experienced unexpected red landing gear warning lights during its approach to LCLK, leading to a missed approach and subsequent visual verification.

What happened

On January 20, 2020, a Boeing 737-800, registration SP-ESD, was performing an approach to landing at Larnaka Airport (LCLK) in Cyprus. During the descent, the flight crew moved the landing gear lever to the "DOWN" position, which successfully deployed the gear. However, while the crew was performing the Landing Checklist at an altitude of 2,981 ft AAL, they observed that the landing gear position indicator lights were illuminated red.

Due to the low altitude and the aircraft's position relative to the runway, the crew initiated a missed approach at 855 ft AAL. The captain notified Air Traffic Control (ATC) of the reason for the go-around and requested a visual inspection of the landing gear. ATC reported that the gear appeared to be extended.

Following the missed approach, the crew executed the "GEAR DISAGREEMENT" procedure and conducted necessary briefings, including the TODAR and NITS protocols with the senior cabin crew member. The crew subsequently notified ATC of their readiness to attempt a second approach and landing, which was completed without further incident.

The investigation

The PKBWL examined the flight data and system logs following the event. The investigation focused on the discrepancy between the physical state of the landing gear and the cockpit indications. The investigation reviewed the functionality of the Proximity Switch Electronic Unit (PSEU) and the subsequent flight history of the aircraft.

Findings

  • During the second approach and the subsequent 16 flights conducted prior to the report's completion, the landing gear indication system functioned normally.
  • No faults or malfunctions were recorded in the PSEU memory regarding the landing gear system.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-01-20 Boeing 737-800 accident near LCLK, PL?

A Boeing 737-800 experienced unexpected red landing gear warning lights during its approach to LCLK, leading to a missed approach and subsequent visual verification.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-01-20 involved a Boeing 737-800, registration SP-ESD, operated by Pilot samolotowy ATPL(A), at LCLK, PL.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2020-0230/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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