Incident Overview
On 31 December 2016, an Airbus A319-111, registration G-EZMH, operated a commercial passenger flight into London Gatwick Airport. Approximately 20 minutes before the top of descent, the flight crew received a report of excessive cabin heat on the left side of the rear galley. No obvious cause was identified at that time.
Smoke Detection
About ten nautical miles from the threshold of Runway 26R, cabin crew reported smelling smoke in the rear galley. The odor was described as a "strong, sweet, hot, dusty electrical smell". The flight crew transmitted a PAN call to air traffic control, stating their intention to stop on a taxiway after landing to gather further information from the cabin. As a precaution, they requested the attendance of the Airport Fire Service (AFS).
Response and Examination
The initial actions of the 'Smoke/Fumes' QRH checklist were completed. The aircraft landed uneventfully and stopped on Taxiway J. The AFS examined the exterior of the aircraft before escorting it to the parking stand. Firefighters then boarded the aircraft and inspected the rear galley, but they found no source of heat or the reported smell.
Maintenance Findings
During subsequent maintenance checks, the only finding was an inoperative beverage maker located in the rear galley. This unit was replaced, and the aircraft has since operated satisfactorily. No damage or injuries were reported.