On initial pushback LE flaps failed to extend. When Maintenance was unable to duplicate and the flaps checked normal; a B737-300 was again; dispatched for its flight. Upon arrival at the destination airport the devices again failed to extend and an emergency was declared after which the flaps 15 landing was performed without incident.
Synopsis
On initial pushback LE flaps failed to extend. When Maintenance was unable to duplicate and the flaps checked normal; a B737-300 was again; dispatched for its flight. Upon arrival at the destination airport the devices again failed to extend and an emergency was declared after which the flaps 15 landing was performed without incident.
Narrative
We were cleared for the approach and level at 2500 MSL when I called for flaps 5. I watched as the trailing edge flaps extended but noted an amber LE Flap Transit light on the forward panel. I looked overhead at the LE Device panel and no lights were illuminated. We were slowing through about 200 knots and the glidepath was just capturing. I disconnected the approach coupler and told the First Officer that we would not be able to continue the approach. I pushed the Altitude Hold button and maintained 210 knots. The First Officer told Tower we could not continue and we would have to work out some problems. I told the F/O to tell them we had a flight control problem and would need a few minutes to run some checklists. We were vectored for a right downwind and climb to 4000. I asked the First Officer to declare an emergency and send a note to Dispatch. We then called Operations to let them know we had a flight control problem and would need maintenance. I also called the flight attendants and told them of our problem and that we needed to do a couple of checklists and would be on the ground in a few minutes. After completing all checklists. We were vectored back on the approach and landed without incident.
Second reporter narrative
Our initial pushback and the engine start were normal. Flaps were selected 5. The LE Flaps Transit light illuminated and a visual inspection observed no LE flaps). We returned to the gate. Maintenance called to aircraft. Maintenance checked the aircraft. The Operations check was normal and they could not duplicate the indication. Normal procedures resumed and we departed.
More incidents for this aircraft family →
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.