Smoke involving a de Havilland Canada DHC-8-315, VH-JSQ, 172 km south of Moomba Aerodrome, South Australia, on 5 May 1998

199801584

Summary

While returning to Adelaide from Moomba, the crew of a Dash 8 detected smoke coming from around the weather radar. They immediately turned off the equipment, donned oxygen masks and made a PAN call requesting RFF services to be placed on standby. To dissipate the smoke, the crew requested a descent to 10,000 feet where the aircraft was depressurised and the forward outflow valve was opened. After ensuring that there was no smoke or flame coming from the radar unit, the crew made the decision to continue to their destination and briefed the passengers accordingly. Upon arrival in Adelaide the aircraft made a normal approach and an uneventful landing. The flight attendants were later sent for medical attention due to the effects of smoke inhalation. Maintenance investigation by the operator traced the fault to the radar indicator unit. This was replaced and the aircraft returned to service.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199801584
Occurrence date 05/05/1998
Location 172 km south of Moomba Aerodrome
State South Australia
Report release date 27/05/1998
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Smoke
Occurrence class Incident

Aircraft details

Manufacturer De Havilland Canada/De Havilland Aircraft of Canada
Model DHC-8-315
Registration VH-JSQ
Sector Turboprop
Operation type Charter
Departure point Moomba SA
Destination Adelaide SA
Damage Nil