A320, Brisbane QLD Australia, 2020

A320, Brisbane QLD Australia, 2020

Summary

On 23 October 2020, an Airbus A320 taking off from Brisbane became difficult to keep on the centreline as speed increased and takeoff was rejected from a low speed. It remained on the runway and messages indicating a malfunctioning right engine were then seen. The Investigation found that one engine had surged as thrust was applied due to damage caused by a screwdriver tip inadvertently left in the engine during routine maintenance and that the pilot flying had used the rudder when attempting to maintain directional control during the reject despite its known ineffectiveness for this purpose at low speeds.

Description

On 23 October 2020, a V2500-powered Airbus A320 (VH-VFF) being operated by Jetstar Airways on a scheduled domestic passenger flight from Brisbane to Cairns in normal day visibility made a low speed rejected takeoff when directional control became difficult as the aircraft accelerated and alerts advising a malfunction of the right engine subsequently appeared. Observers and some of the passengers subsequently reported having seen flames emitted from the right engine as the takeoff roll commenced.

Investigation

An Investigation into the accident was carried out by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). Relevant data from the aircraft DAR (Digital Aircraft Condition Monitoring System Recorder) was available in support of the Investigation. Flight crew details were not recorded.

What Happened

After completion of the push back, the First Officer, designated as PF for the flight, taxied the aircraft for a runway 01L departure. In anticipation of a rolling takeoff on reaching the runway, the Before Takeoff Checks were completed whilst taxiing and having been cleared for takeoff shortly before entering the runway, a rolling takeoff was commenced with Flex thrust set. 

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