Flight History
On 25 March 2024, an Airbus A340-313, registration HB-JMD, operated flight EDW92 from Bogotá (SKBO) to Cartagena (SKCG) and then to Zurich (LSZH). The flight from Bogotá to Cartagena was uneventful, carrying 287 passengers and 13 crew. At Cartagena, 27 additional passengers boarded, bringing the total to 314 passengers and 13 crew. Fuel was loaded to 72.4 tons. No deferred items were noted.
The aircraft departed Cartagena at 03:42:56 UTC from runway 01 with packs on and TOGA thrust. During initial climb, after thrust reduction, an ENG 3 EGT OVER LIMIT message appeared but was resolved by the crew.
Smoke Event
At 03:47 UTC, passing 5,000 feet, the cabin crew observed smoke with an electrical smell. About ten seconds later, the cabin crew reported smoke and significant heat in the passenger cabin. The cockpit received messages: "AIR PACK 2 REG FAULT" and "PACK 2 AIR CYCLE MACHINE". The aircraft was levelled at 8,000 feet. The crew donned quick-donning masks; some cabin crew used protective breathing equipment.
Forced Landing
The crew decided to perform a forced landing at Ernesto Cortissoz Airport (SKBQ) in Barranquilla due to its longer runway. Communications with other crew and ATC were challenging, increasing workload. ATC provided vectors for an RNP approach to runway 05. The aircraft landed at 04:01 UTC.
After landing, the aircraft stopped on the runway. Brake temperature indications reached 600–700°C. The airport fire service confirmed no fire; main landing gear wheels and brakes appeared undamaged, though the nose gear emitted smoke. Engines were shut down. The crew initially planned a rapid disembarkation on the runway but decided to taxi to the apron due to logistical reasons. The cabin remained hot. Taxi began at 04:23 UTC, and the aircraft parked at 04:31 UTC. Passengers deplaned normally; no injuries occurred. No smoke or fire was observed in the cargo compartment.
Post-Landing and Investigation
All 13 crew and 314 passengers were uninjured. The aircraft sustained minor damage to the No. 2 air cycle machine system. The Colombian accident investigation authority (DIACC) was notified by the Swiss Transportation Safety Board (STSB) following ICAO Annex 13. An investigation board was formed with experts in operational factors, airworthiness, and cabin safety. Technical advisors from Edelweiss and EASA were assigned.