Air carrier pilot crew reported a EGWPS terrain warning created by ATC. The pilots took evasive action and returned for a normal landing.
Synopsis
Air carrier pilot crew reported a EGWPS terrain warning created by ATC. The pilots took evasive action and returned for a normal landing.
Narrative
Weather bases were at approximately 7k to 8k; vis about 4 miles in rain and haze. We had been flying the LIVRI 1D to Runway 29; with a couple shortcuts and ATC directed altitudes; after an initial descend via. We discussed the terrain and had terrain on Navigation Display (ND); and were both trying to use the min vector chart and terrain depictions on the approach and STAR plates to back-up the controller. We had been given 11k at around GL824; and then at GL825 were given direct PLADE and a descent to 10k. While descent to PLADE we were given a 9k descent and cleared for the approach'. while discussing setting the FAF altitude (managed descent); we were then given direct to GL981 (FAF) and a descent to 7700. I queried the controller if we were still cleared for the approach and was told 'yes'. At this point we began to configure; and while I was engaged in this; the First Officer (FO) stated that he felt ATC was setting us up for a GPWS event due to the terrain at GL980. I looked back at the chart; and the ND; and our position and agreed with him. Before I could query ATC on the wisdom of a 7700 descent; EGPWS announced 'Terrain; Terrain'. FO immediately executed the escape maneuver. ATC immediately tried to re-clear us for the approach; but we elected to transition to a go-around due to the fact that although we were now underneath the weather; the aircraft was in go around phase and we had insufficient time to clean up the box; reinstall the approach and safely execute it; and the visibility precluded an immediate transition to a visual approach. We were vectored around for an uneventful ILS to Runway 29."
Second reporter narrative
On the LIVRI 1D; around GL824 Aircraft X was told to descend to 11;000. Around GL825; Aircraft X was given direct to PLADE and to descend to 10;000. No brown peaks/terrain were depicted on the arrival chart between those points. About halfway in between those points; we were instructed to descend to 9;000 for PLADE and subsequently cleared the approach. Enroute to PLADE; Approach gave Aircraft X direct to GL981 on the ILS Z Runway 29 and to descend to 7700. As the flight went direct to GL981; the pilot flying (PF)/First Officer (FO) noticed the terrain on the approach chart and stated that it appeared to be close to terrain and that their instructions were putting us into a GPWS event. Shortly after that; the Captain who was engaged in a configuration change; concurred; the audible Terrain went off; and the PF complied with the Escape. The Approach Controller gave follow on instructions and tried to re clear Aircraft X for the approach; however; there was insufficient time to allow the crew to complete all required checklists and re-engage the FMGC. The Captain asked for vectors around to attempt another approach; via APRIM; ensuring that there would be no shortcuts. The crew finished all checklists; completed the approach with no further events.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.