Electrical failure leads to single generator operation on Boeing 737

Casualties unknown • Aeropuerto Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (Sabe) (Buenos Aires), AR

A Boeing 737 operating in Argentina experienced a generator failure during approach, leaving the aircraft dependent on a single power source.

What happened

On November 17, 2025, a Boeing 737, registration LV-KEG, was performing a scheduled commercial passenger flight from El Calafate to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery in Buenos Aires. During the approach phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced an electrical malfunction that resulted in the disconnection of the number 2 engine generator.

Because the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) had been deferred for this specific flight, the aircraft was unable to utilize a secondary backup source. This left the crew with only a single source of alternating current, provided by the number 1 engine generator. In response to the loss of redundancy, the crew declared a Pan-Pan urgency signal. The flight continued its descent and approach, eventually landing at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery without further incident. The aircraft vacated the runway and taxied to the gate normally.

The investigation

This was a desk investigation conducted by the JST. Following the landing, maintenance personnel from the operator performed inspections and repairs in accordance with the manufacturer's maintenance manual. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was returned to service the following day without further issues.

Probable cause

The loss of electrical redundancy was caused by the failure of the number 2 engine generator combined with the deferred operational status of the APU.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2025-11-17 BOEING 737-8U3 accident near Aeropuerto Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (Sabe) (Buenos Aires), AR?

A Boeing 737 operating in Argentina experienced a generator failure during approach, leaving the aircraft dependent on a single power source.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2025-11-17 involved a BOEING 737-8U3, registration LV-KEG, operated by Aviación Comercial, at Aeropuerto Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (Sabe) (Buenos Aires), AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of electrical redundancy was caused by the failure of the number 2 engine generator combined with the deferred operational status of the APU.

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