What happened
On August 11, 2015, at approximately 06:55 local time, an Embraer ERJ 190-100 LR, registration HB-JVL, operated by Helvetic Airways, was performing a commercial flight from Zurich (LSZH) to Naples (LIRN) under IFR flight rules. While cruising at approximately flight level 330 over the Gotthard Pass region, the flight crew observed smoke entering the cockpit for a brief period.
In response to the smoke, the crew donned oxygen masks and decided to abort the flight, initiating a return to Zurich. Although the crew noted a light, sweet odor in the forward section of the passenger cabin during the flight, no smoke was observed in the passenger area or the galley. The aircraft landed in Zurich without further incident, and all 43 passengers and 3 crew members were able to disembark via the stairs without injury. There were no injuries reported.
The investigation
The investigation focused on identifying the source of the smoke and the sweet odor. During the post-flight inspection, investigators removed cockpit side panel linings to check for electrical or mechanical failures. No evidence of charring, smoke damage, or technical defects was found within the cockpit structure.
Upon examining the galley oven, investigators found no smoke emanating from the unit when opened. However, the inspection revealed residues of burnt food items inside the oven.