Dual engine shutdown during landing of airBaltic Airbus A220-300

Casualties unknown • Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, Denmark, CA

An airBaltic Airbus A220-300 experienced an uncommanded dual engine shutdown upon touchdown at Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

On 11 July 2021, an Airbus A220-300 operated by airBaltic was performing a scheduled passenger service from Riga, Latvia, to Copenhagen, Denmark. During the approach and descent phase into Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, the flight crew reduced the thrust levers to the idle position, which caused the autothrottle system to disengage.

Shortly after the autothrottle disconnected, the "R THROTTLE FAIL" master caution light illuminated in the cockpit. As the aircraft made contact with the runway and both main landing gears were established on the ground, both engines shut down without command. The aircraft successfully exited the active runway and transitioned to a taxiway, where it came to a complete stop. The aircraft was subsequently towed to the terminal gate. There were no injuries reported among the passengers or crew.

The investigation

The investigation was conducted by the TSB following a delegation from the Accident Investigation Board of Denmark. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events leading from the reduction of thrust to the uncommanded dual engine shutdown following touchdown.

Probable cause

The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the illumination of the R THROTTLE FAIL master caution and the subsequent simultaneous shutdown of both engines upon landing.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-07-11 Airbus A220-300 accident near Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, Denmark, CA?

An airBaltic Airbus A220-300 experienced an uncommanded dual engine shutdown upon touchdown at Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, resulting in no injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-07-11 involved a Airbus A220-300, operated by Air Baltic Corporation AS, at Copenhagen/Kastrup Airport, Denmark, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the illumination of the R THROTTLE FAIL master caution and the subsequent simultaneous shutdown of both engines upon landing.

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