On September 30, 2023, an EasyJet Europe Airbus A319-100, registered as OE-LQI, was en route from Milan Malpensa, Italy to Prague, Czech Republic when the crew reported smoke in the cockpit. The incident occurred while the aircraft was flying at FL320, approximately 40 nautical miles east of Munich, Germany.
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The Diversion
Upon detecting smoke in the cockpit, the crew made the decision to divert to Munich. The aircraft landed safely on Munich's runway 26R approximately 17 minutes later.
The Aftermath
Following the incident, a replacement EasyJet Switzerland aircraft was positioned from Berlin, Germany to Munich to resume the flight. The passengers were delivered to Prague with a delay of about 7 hours and 40 minutes. The occurrence aircraft remained on the ground for about 34 hours before returning to service. This highlights the seriousness of the incident and the thorough checks that were likely carried out before the aircraft was deemed fit for service again.
Looking Forward
Incidents like these underscore the importance of robust safety protocols and quick decision-making in aviation. The crew's prompt response ensured the safety of all passengers and crew on board. While incidents like these are rare, they serve as a reminder of the challenges faced in aviation and the constant need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. It also highlights the importance of regular maintenance checks and stringent quality control measures.
