Incident Overview
On 4 July 2013, an Airbus A320 operated by Monarch Airlines, registration G-OZBW, experienced an incident while on approach to Málaga Airport. The aircraft had originally departed from Birmingham Airport en route to Gibraltar Airport but diverted to Málaga due to weather conditions. The flight carried 173 persons, including 167 passengers and 6 crew members. There were no injuries or damage to the aircraft.
Flight Details
The aircraft, with callsign MON446G, took off from Birmingham Airport at 06:15 UTC on a scheduled passenger flight to Gibraltar. The crew had planned the flight with Tangiers Airport as the alternate, and the aircraft was refueled accordingly. The flight proceeded normally until it neared Gibraltar.
Weather and Approach
Upon arrival at Gibraltar, weather conditions met the operating minimums. However, clouds prevented the crew from establishing visual contact with the runway when they reached the decision height during the approach to runway 09. The crew executed a missed approach.
Fuel Emergency
Despite having Tangiers as their planned alternate, the crew decided to head to Málaga Airport, hoping for a direct approach to conserve fuel. The traffic situation at Málaga delayed their arrival and prevented the desired approach conditions. At 08:54 UTC, the crew declared a fuel emergency (MAYDAY). Air traffic control granted landing priority.
Outcome
The aircraft landed at Málaga Airport at 09:04 UTC with reserve fuel plus 20 kg remaining. No emergency services were required. The aircraft sustained no damage, and no injuries were reported. The investigation focused on weather information and factors influencing the crew's decision to change the alternate airport.