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In a recent incident that underscores the critical role wind shear can play in aviation safety, an SAS Airbus A320neo, registered as SE-ROE, experienced a compressor stall on its left-hand engine. The cause? A hard landing due to wind shear in Madeira, Portugal.
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The Flight
The aircraft was on its final approach as flight SK2901, traveling from Stockholm to Funchal. However, while on this final approach, the aircraft encountered a wind shear, resulting in a hard landing.
The Incident
Due to the hard touchdown, the left-hand engine suffered a compressor stall and bounced. Following this, flight SK2901 initiated a go-around and entered into a holding pattern. After holding for around 20 minutes, the pilots eventually decided to divert to Las Palmas.
The Diversion
The aircraft safely landed about 90 minutes later on runway 03L at Las Palmas. Passengers reported a hard touchdown, and the captain attributed it to the encounter with wind shear. During the go-around, the left engine emitted unusual "fumes," prompting the precautionary diversion.
The Aftermath
The incident, documented in the pilot report, underscores the critical role wind shear can play in aviation safety. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. This event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather phenomena like wind shear, and the importance of pilot training and aircraft technology in ensuring passenger safety.