Incident Overview
On 7 December 2012, a SAAB 2000 aircraft registered as HB-IZJ, operated by Darwin Airline SA, was en route from Rome Fiumicino (LIRF) to Geneva (LSGG) on a scheduled IFR flight. While approximately 22 nautical miles southwest of Geneva Airport, the crew encountered fuel filter problems on both engines. The aircraft subsequently landed successfully at Geneva. There were no injuries to the two pilots, one cabin crew member, or the 19 passengers. The aircraft and ground property sustained no damage.
Investigation Findings
The Swiss Accident Investigation Board (SAIB) investigated the event and later issued a notification of cessation, concluding that the incident posed no severe risk or danger to passengers, crew, or the aircraft. The investigation determined that the fuel filter blockage on both engines was not associated with any fuel bypassing and that there was no fuel contamination. The blockage on the left-hand engine had occurred on the preceding flight from Geneva to Rome. On that prior flight, the required inspection of the fuel filter mechanical actual bypass indication (pop-out) was not performed. Consequently, the associated warning was present again on the return flight.
Crew Actions and Outcome
The SAIB noted that the crew’s decision to land in Geneva was correct, and the approach and landing were executed in accordance with the appropriate checklist. After a thorough review of all relevant facts, the board concluded that there was no severe risk or danger at any time.
Conclusion of Investigation
The investigation was closed without further action. The reason for the incident was identified as the failure to perform the required inspection of the fuel filter mechanical actual bypass indication on the preceding flight, leading to the blockage warning reappearing.