Incident Overview
On 6 August 2005, an ATR 72 aircraft, registered as TS-LBB, ditched in the sea off Capo Gallo, near Palermo, Italy. The aircraft was operated by a Tunisian carrier and was conducting a scheduled flight. The ditching occurred after the crew declared an emergency due to fuel-related difficulties.
Investigation
The Italian National Agency for Flight Safety (ANSV) conducted a technical investigation into the incident. Investigators analyzed flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) data, examined the wreckage, and performed ground refueling tests. The investigation focused on the fuel system, particularly the fuel quantity indicator (FQI), which had been replaced by maintenance personnel the day before the flight.
Findings
The report detailed the flight history, including preparations on 5 August 2005, when maintenance replaced the FQI. On 6 August, the aircraft departed from Tunis for Bari, then continued to Djerba. During the cruise phase, the crew declared a MAYDAY due to fuel starvation. Communications with Palermo Approach were established, and the crew prepared for a ditching. The aircraft made a controlled ditching, and all occupants evacuated. The wreckage was located and recovered by the Italian Navy. The investigation identified issues with fuel quantity indication and refueling procedures.