What happened
On November 25, 2021, an Airbus A320-251N, registration PR-YRH, operated by Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras, was preparing for departure from Marechal Rondon International Airport (SBCY) in Cuiabá, Brazil. During the takeoff roll on runway 35, the flight crew initiated a low-energy rejected takeoff (RTO) at approximately 90 knots after receiving a low-level indication in the aircraft's yellow hydraulic system.
After the aircraft came to a complete stop on the runway, a disturbance began in the passenger cabin. Some passengers, under the impression that an external fire was present, began to panic. Although the flight crew attempted to instruct passengers via the public address system to await further instructions, the message was not clearly understood. Consequently, an evacuation occurred without being commanded by the pilots, while the engines were still running at idle power. During the process, several passengers opened emergency exits, and the aircraft' and passengers sustained various injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation determined that the initial hydraulic warning was caused by a small component from a sensor detaching and falling into the yellow hydraulic system's reservoir. The investigation also examined the breakdown in coordination between the cockpit and the cabin crew. Investigators found that the flight crew was unable to contact the flight attendants via the interphone due to the level of unrest in the cabin. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's maintenance records, airworthiness certificates, and the crew's qualifications were all valid and up to date.
Findings
- The rejected takeoff was triggered by a hydraulic yellow system low-level warning caused by a detached sensor component.
- An uncommanded evacuation was initiated by passengers and flight attendants following a period of cabin unrest.
- Communication failures between the cockpit and the cabin prevented effective management of the situation.
- The flight crew's instructions via the PA system were not understood by the passengers.
- The evacuation resulted in one serious injury and 14 minor injuries among the passengers.
- The aircraft sustained no structural damage.