B777 flight crew reported a mechanical problem with both engine generators during climb. The flight crew returned to the departure airport for an overweight landing.
Synopsis
B777 flight crew reported a mechanical problem with both engine generators during climb. The flight crew returned to the departure airport for an overweight landing.
Narrative
Operating Aircraft X ZZZZ-ZZZ on Day 0 - this was an IOE segment with Captain as the LCA and a new hire pilot in the First Officer (FO) control seat. Myself and another relief pilot were the relief pilots for the segment and in occupied the cockpit jumpseats during the event. On liftoff; R DRIVE and R GEN OFF illuminated. Captain acknowledged the message and calmly stated for the student to complete a normal takeoff profile and we would address the messages on climb out - an excellent decision and use of CRM. Once safely established on climb out; Captain started the APU (experience showing here) and was in the process to address the R side generator messages via checklist but the system RESET itself and all R side messages disappeared. A few short minutes later; the L DRIVE and L GEN OFF illuminated. Captain indicated this was unusual and it was likely we may need to return to ZZZZ. We began the process coordinating a hold with ATC to allow for proper system evaluation and checklist use as well as coordination with Dispatch & Maintenance. Established in the hold; Captain used the checklist - the Left side electrical messages persisted and; as a result; the L IDG DRIVE was disconnected via checklist command. After coordination with Company; we were informed that Maintenance independently received IDG/ GEN related messages on BOTH the right side as well as the left side generator systems - though we only had left side indications persist. Again; Captain's instincts proved correct. Captain; in agreement with the Dispatcher and pilot flight crew; came to the universal decision the safest course of action was a return to ZZZZ for inspection. Next Captain coordinated with ATC to provide for fuel dumping and the fuel dump checklist was actioned and; later; the overweight landing checklist was actioned. Captain coordinated with the flight attendants and informed the passengers of the return to ZZZZ. The IOE student had decent previous experience and was able to program the FMC and manage airspeed & configuration changes showing a high level of situational awareness. Captain delegated to the both relief pilots to verify landing performance and double check the diversion guidance from the flight manual. A normal approach and landing was made into ZZZZ and all appropriate electrical maintenance write-ups were completed. Having myself been an instructor in the regional airlines; I must add the calm manner of Captain allowed the student to excel in this environment and despite multiple EICAS messages - the flight was conducted in a deliberate; methodical; and safe fashion based on the leadership of Captain - an outstanding job.
Second reporter narrative
Right after takeoff; we had the R GEN OFF and R GEN DRIVE EICAS messages along with the associated lights on the overhead panel. Just as we were going to do the checklist procedure; the R GEN DRIVE message and light cleared. The right generator was reset by checklist procedure and continued to operate normally.A few minutes later; the L GEN OFF and L GEN DRIVE EICAS messages along with the associated lights on the overhead panel came on. Followed flight manual guidance and did the associated checklist; which disconnects the IDG. Requested clearance from ATC to proceed to a waypoint and hold while we discussed the situation with Dispatch and Maintenance Control. We all agreed that the most prudent course of action would be a return to ZZZZ. Jettisoned fuel and returned for an overweight landing. Dispatch was notified of the use of Emergency Authority for the overweight landing. Provided Dispatch with the fuel jettison data.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.