The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) has released findings revealing that a tired pilot's decision to disconnect the autopilot during a landing approach caused a terrifying 44-degree bank, far exceeding the normal 33-degree safety limit. The incident occurred on January 14, 2025, aboard an Aer Lingus flight from Faro, Portugal, to Dublin Airport, carrying 146 passengers.
What Happened During the Approach
According to the AAIU report, the flight's commander told investigators he "did not sleep well the night before the flight and that he may have been tired." The crew, attempting to shortcut their path to the runway, declined air traffic controllers' offer of "extra track miles" to properly align their descent. As the aircraft arrived "too high and too fast," the commander disconnected the autopilot to fully extend the speed brakes, a decision that led to "degraded situational awareness."
The crew then attempted a descending orbit to the right to lose altitude, resulting in the severe 44-degree bank. During this sharp turn, the Airbus A320's speed dropped below the minimum recommended speed (VLS) on two separate occasions, triggering the aircraft's automatic low-speed protection systems. The flight directors briefly vanished from cockpit screens before the commander applied takeoff thrust to recover the aircraft, causing the jet to climb to 4,200 feet, overshooting its cleared altitude of 3,500 feet.
Aftermath and Safety Measures
The pilots successfully aborted the landing, requested radar vectors for a second approach, and landed safely without further incident. Following the scare, Aer Lingus implemented proactive safety measures, banning pilots from performing orbit manoeuvres during approaches except in training. The airline also began advising crews to initiate a go-around if there is any doubt over a safe landing. Due to these measures, the AAIU concluded its report without issuing further safety recommendations.
Broader Implications for Aviation Safety
This incident underscores the critical importance of pilot fatigue management and adherence to standard operating procedures. Aviation experts note that fatigue can impair decision-making and situational awareness, as highlighted in this case. The AAIU's report serves as a reminder for airlines to prioritize rest and encourage crews to utilize available tools, such as extra track miles, to ensure safe approaches.
Aer Lingus has not publicly commented on the report, but the airline's swift action in updating procedures reflects a commitment to passenger safety. Passengers on the flight experienced a frightening ordeal, but the outcome could have been far worse without the aircraft's automated safety systems.
