What happened
On an international flight operated by LANO DE INDUSTRIAS AERONÁUTICAS Y SERVICIOS AÉREOS, S.A., an Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW, registration YV2953, experienced a technical malfunction during its departure from Maiquetia International Airport. The aircraft was en route to Grantly Adams International Airport in Barbados, carrying 89 passengers and five crew members.
While climbing to flight level 330 (33,000 feet), the aircraft suffered a failure in the number one bleed air system, followed by a failure in the number two bleed air system. This sequence of events led to a progressive increase in cabin pressure. In response to the malfunction, the commander requested authorization from the Maiquetia Area Control Center (ACC) to descend to 10,000 feet. During the descent, a high cabin altitude alarm was activated. The crew implemented memory items and followed the procedures outlined in the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH).
The pilot in command notified air traffic control of the decision to return to the departure airport. At 13:27 UTC, the aircraft landed safely at Maiquetia International Airport. All passengers and crew members were uninjured.
The investigation
The JIAAC investigation included a physical inspection of the aircraft, interviews with the pilot and first officer, and a comprehensive review of maintenance records and flight documents. Investigators performed a 360-degree photographic survey of the aircraft and conducted a cabin leakage test to identify potential pressure leaks.
Maintenance actions were verified through several service slips. The investigation confirmed that the fan air valve was replaced and that subsequent operational tests of the engine pneumatic bleed system and the ice detector system yielded satisfactory results. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate and maintenance history were found to be in order at the time of the event.