2010-11 · NASA ASRS report 918265
Following the loss of the left engine driven hydraulic pump during climb out; the flight crew of an A320 was distressed to learn that an emergency had been declared for them upon arrival at their destination.
We lost the #1 Engine Hydraulic Pump (Green system) during climbout. The system was secured per the ECAM and the PTU pressurized the green hydraulic system.We advised; Dispatch; Maintenance Control and the flight attendants of the situation. Told Dispatch we were not declaring an emergency and would do a normal landing and taxi in. After switching to Center; they asked for FOB (fuel on board) and SOB (souls on board). Center said that someone at company declared the emergency for us.The Captain made a PA explaining what our situation was and how it would be a normal landing. The landing and taxi in was uneventful except we were met by the CFR. We tried to have the Tower and the CFR cancel the emergency; but nobody would. The Captain talked to the CFR and they left.As a pilot; I really thought it was ridiculous how after telling Dispatch we were not declaring an emergency; someone on the ground could do that for us. This totally blindsides the crew while they are flying. My flight's events highlight the fact that only the crew flying the aircraft should be able to declare an emergency. We advised Dispatch clearly that we were fine and not declaring an emergency; but our informed and educated PROFESSIONAL opinion and decision was disregarded by someone sitting on the ground who is not the A320 expert. This policy is not smart. It needs to be changed.
After switching to Center; was asked for our fuel on board and souls on board. I asked who prompted that; they said the company. I told them that we were NOT an emergency aircraft.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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