Synopsis
On 21 February 2017, an Airbus A320, registration EC-HTD, operated by Vueling on a scheduled domestic passenger flight from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport to Barcelona-El Prat Airport, experienced a pressurization system fault while at flight level 300. The incident prompted a MAYDAY declaration and an emergency descent, with the aircraft diverting to Alicante Airport for a safe landing.
Flight History
The aircraft departed from Malaga with the auxiliary power unit (APU) deferred. Shortly after crossing flight level 100, the flight crew received an ECAM caution indicating "AIR ENG 1 BLEED ABNORM". Subsequently, a pressurization fault occurred, leading to the decision to declare an emergency and initiate an emergency descent. The aircraft landed at Alicante Airport without further incident. There were 176 persons on board, comprising 7 crew and 169 passengers; no injuries were reported.
Aircraft Information
The incident aircraft was an Airbus A320, registration EC-HTD. The APU was inoperative at the time of departure. The aircraft was equipped with a dual bleed air system; the left pneumatic system (engine 1 bleed) experienced a failure, which, combined with the unavailability of the APU, led to the loss of cabin pressurization.
Investigation
The Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission (CIAIAC) of Spain conducted the investigation. The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were preserved and analyzed. The investigation focused on the pneumatic system failure and maintenance practices. No safety recommendations were issued.