What happened
On September 11, 2022, at 11:34 UTC, a Boeing 737-232, registration YV2823, departed Barcelona's Gral. José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport for a commercial flight to Maiquetía International Airport. During the approach phase at approximately 11:49 UTC, while descending from 6,50 and leveling at 5,000 feet per air traffic control instructions, the pilot observed a low-pressure warning light for the number one engine's hydraulic system.
As the crew attempted to configure the aircraft for landing by deploying Flaps 1, both hydraulic system 'A' low-pressure lights illuminated, and the hydraulic oil quantity indicator dropped to zero. The crew requested permission to maintain 4,000 feet and orbit north of the station to execute emergency procedures. Following the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) for hydraulic failures, the crew successfully performed an alternate flap extension to 15 degrees. The aircraft landed safely at Maiquetía International Airport at 21:56 UTC without further incident. There were no injuries among the 109 persons on board, and the aircraft sustained no significant damage beyond the reported system failure.
The investigation
The JIAAC investigation included interviews with the captain and first officer, as well as a physical inspection of the aircraft at the general apron. Investigators performed photographic and video documentation to identify external leaks. A technical inspection of the hydraulic system focused on the nose gear assembly. Additionally, investigators reviewed flight logs, maintenance records from the operator's certified maintenance organization (OMA-C N°440), and crew licenses to verify compliance with operational standards.
Findings
The investigation established that there was an external hydraulic fluid leak originating from a line connection at the nose gear of the aircraft.