ZSU Controller described a MVA infractions when controllers failed to note the error during weather deviation maneuvers; the reporter noting the MVA over the ocean area needs to be revised.
Synopsis
ZSU Controller described a MVA infractions when controllers failed to note the error during weather deviation maneuvers; the reporter noting the MVA over the ocean area needs to be revised.
Narrative
I was in the Area; monitoring and walking by each sector checking Strip Bays and [performing] other FLM responsibilities. I stopped in between the R1 and R5 Sectors and noticed that they did not look busy. I then particularly supervised the R5 Sector and noticed an A320 over the ocean on downwind; 23 miles in the weather. I asked regarding his intentions and the Controller said deviating. I then realized and said 'at 2;000 FT'; then said; 'that's unacceptable'. The R5 Controller realized it and proceeded to vector the A320 back to SJU over the ocean; still in the 3;000 FT; MVA at 2;000 FT for about 7 miles. The A320 then entered the 1;700 FT MVA. I reported this to the OMIC. He then proceeded with the preliminary investigation concluding it to be an operational error. It is still unknown if R1 caused the event by handing off the aircraft in a descent to or level at 2;000 FT to R5 while deviating for weather into the 3;000 FT MVA. Recommendation; increase position awareness and no chatting between the sectors. One plane is all it takes. Attention to rules; regulations and procedures. This was an obvious mistake that had it been over land or mountains could have been fatal. These sectors are close in proximity and could have been prevented. However; the MVA over the ocean approximately 20 miles north of SJU airport is 3;000 FT when we 'know' that it is the ocean. I believe a revision of MVA's at ZSU CERAP Area is in need.
Second reporter narrative
While receiving a hand off from adjacent sector on an A320; the aircraft was descending to 2;000 in a 1;500 MVA. While deviating around weather they got into a MVA area of 3;000 FT. This was an unusual situation; because we were working Runway 26/28 operation; which is worked around 2 to 3 times a year only. Recommendation; since we work this operation only very few times a year; and get a refresher only once a year in unusual situations; it would be helpful to do a refresher 2 to 3 times a year.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.