Incident Overview
On 31 July 2014, a Lufthansa Airbus A320-200 (registration D-AIPK) operating flight LH1788 from Munich to Bodrum experienced a smoke smell in the rear passenger cabin shortly after takeoff. Despite the galley ovens being switched off, the odor persisted. The flight crew decided to interrupt the flight and land at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (LHBP). The aircraft's SSR transponder was set to the emergency code. During the event, two flight attendants became incapacitated.
Post-Landing Events
After landing, the crew members were taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. A technical inspection of the aircraft by Lufthansa Technik Budapest Kft. found no evidence of smoke or burning. Witnesses reported not only a smoke smell but also a pungent odor resembling acetone. A passenger had been observed removing nail polish by soaking her fingers in a liquid contained in an aluminum bowl. The bowl, along with the liquid and two AA batteries, was handed over to airport disaster management and fire protection personnel.
Investigation Findings
The Hungarian Transportation Safety Bureau (TSB) analyzed the facts and concluded that the burn-like odor resembling acetone likely resulted from a chemical reaction between the acetone-based liquid in the bowl and the AA batteries. However, the cause of the initial smoke smell that occurred shortly after takeoff could not be determined. Medical examinations of the crew showed no signs of intoxication. TSB presumed that the incapacitation of the two flight attendants was a psychosomatic reaction.
Classification and Actions
The occurrence was initially classified as a serious incident under EU Regulation No. 996/2010. After reviewing cockpit voice recordings, interviewing the crew, and conducting laboratory analysis of the liquid, the investigating committee determined that a full technical investigation was unnecessary. On 13 October 2014, TSB reclassified the event as an incident. TSB incorporated a study from the German accident investigation organization (BFU) regarding similar on-board incidents. No further action was required, and the case was closed.