What happened
On 10 October 2010, a DHC-8-402 Dash 8, registration G-FLBC, arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport following a scheduled passenger flight from Southampton. After landing on Runway 06, the aircraft taxied for approximately 14 minutes toward its assigned stand. During this taxi, the commander utilized moderate braking.
Upon reaching the stand, the aircraft was shut down normally. As the crew prepared to begin passenger disembarkation via the rear left exit, ground personnel alerted the flight crew to flames emerging from the left main wheel assembly. The crew immediately halted the evacuation process. Passengers were instead directed to exit through the front left door directly into the terminal. The aerodrome fire and rescue service attended the scene, successfully extinguishing the flames after roughly two minutes, though smoke continued to emanate from the assembly until it had cooled.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the origin of the fire within the landing gear. Technical examinations of the brake units and wheel assemblies were conducted, and both components were subsequently replaced. While the aircraft operator performed an internal engineering investigation into the brake units, the results were inconclusive. However, the investigation established that the fire was caused by the brake unit not being fully released during taxiing.
Findings
- The heat produced by the malfunctioning brake caused the grease within the wheel hub to melt.
- This liquefied grease leaked out and ignited upon contact with the overheated brake units.
- There were no injuries to the 4 crew members or 54 passengers on board.