What happened
On 28 October 1999, an ATR-42-300, registration G-BVJP, was performing a scheduled flight from Stockholm/Arlanda to Jönseborg. The aircraft was operated by Gill Aviation Limited under a wet-lease agreement for Braathens Malmö Aviation. Approximately ten minutes after departure, the flight attendant reported white smoke entering the passenger cabin. Shortly thereafter, while cruising at flight level 100, the aircraft's smoke warning system was triggered.
In response to the smoke, the captain initiated emergency checklists and decided to divert the aircraft to Linköping airport. The aircraft landed safely without injury to the 43 passengers or the crew. Following the landing, passengers were transferred to buses to complete their journey to Jönköping.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the sequence of events and the operational conditions of the flight. While a technician later identified a minor oil leak in the left-hand engine as the likely source of the smoke, the investigation was hindered by a lack of promised factual information from the aircraft owner.
Investigators also scrutinized the cabin environment during the emergency. It was noted that the sudden decision to land occurred while meal service was in progress. Consequently, the cabin was not fully secured for landing, and one emergency exit was found to be partially obstructed by service items.
Findings
- The smoke in the cabin was likely caused by an oil leak in the left-hand engine.
- The suddenness of the diversion left insufficient time for the cabin crew to prepare the cabin, which presented a significant safety risk.
- There was a lack of communication between the flight deck and the cabin crew regarding the status of the cabin prior to touchdown.
- The presence of a uniformed but unqualified crew member (a purser acting in a passenger capacity) created ambiguity in roles during the emergency.
- The leasing authorization for the aircraft had expired several days before the incident occurred.
Safety action
SHK noted that the presence of uniformed personnel without flight safety qualifications could lead to delays in passenger assistance during critical situations. The investigation highlighted the need for clear definitions regarding the competence and authority of extra cabin personnel.