SF34, en-route, Santa Maria CA USA, 2006

SF34, en-route, Santa Maria CA USA, 2006

Summary

On 2 January 2006, an American Eagle Saab 340 crew failed to notice a progressive loss of climb performance in icing conditions and control of the aircraft was lost when it stalled at 11,700 feet and was only recovered after a 5200 feet height loss. The Investigation noted that the aircraft had stalled prior to the activation of the Stall Protection System and that the climb had been conducted with the AP engaged and, contrary to SOP, with VS mode selected. It was concluded that SLD icing conditions had prevailed. Four Safety Recommendations were made and two previous ones reiterated.

Description

On 2 January 2006, a Saab 340B (N390AE) being operated by American Eagle on a scheduled domestic passenger flight from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles and climbing through 11700 feet in day Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) stalled and control was not recovered until after 5200 feet of altitude had been lost. After recovery the flight was completed to destination. None of the 28 occupants were injured and the aircraft did not sustain substantial damage.

Investigation

An Investigation was carried out by the NTSB. FDR data was successfully downloaded. It was established that the 34 year-old Captain had 6765 hours total flying experience including 3981 hours on type. The 32 year-old First Officer had 1367 hours total flying experience including 132 hours on type.

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