Incident Overview
On 12 February 2024, SriLankan Airlines flight UL 605, an Airbus A330-300 registered as 4R-ALQ, departed Melbourne International Airport (MEL) at 07:16 UTC bound for Colombo (CMB) with 211 passengers and 15 crew members. During climb at approximately flight level 220, about 60 nautical miles northwest of Melbourne, the cockpit crew detected a strong burning smell and visible smoke entering the cockpit through air conditioning vents above the glare shield. Metal dust particles were also observed with the smoke. Visibility decreased rapidly, and within seconds the cockpit filled with smoke.
Crew Actions
The Pilot in Command (PIC) determined that the smoke originated from the air conditioning system and switched off both air conditioning packs. The cockpit crew donned oxygen masks. The PIC halted the climb and initiated a rapid descent to flight level 90. The Operating First Officer (OFO) declared a MAYDAY. Simultaneously, the purser reported cabin smoke to the flight deck, and a cabin emergency call was received.
Return and Landing
The aircraft leveled off at FL90 and turned back toward Melbourne. Due to being over maximum landing weight, the crew requested and received clearance to descend to FL70 to burn fuel. The PIC briefed passengers on the decision to return. Melbourne air traffic control inquired about the situation; the PIC reported that the smoke was under control and requested only local priority, not a full emergency. After completing checklists and briefing for an overweight landing, the aircraft landed uneventfully at Melbourne at 08:23 UTC.