Aviation safety investigations & reports
Pressurisation event involving Airbus A330, VH-EBK, 235 NM (435 km) south-west of Adelaide, South Australia, on 5 February 2021
AO-2021-005
Summary
The ATSB is investigating a pressurisation incident involving an Airbus A330, VH-EBK, on 5 February 2021.
While en-route from Melbourne to Perth, at about 1405 UTC (0035 CSuT) and approximately 235 NM to the south-west of Adelaide, the flight crew conducted an emergency descent from 40,000 feet to 10,000 feet due to a depressurisation indication. An emergency was declared to air traffic control and the aircraft diverted to Adelaide, where it safely landed at 1533 UTC (0203 CSuT).
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will include interviewing the flight crew, collecting maintenance data, and reviewing recorded flight data.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. However, should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate safety action can be taken.
General details
| Date: | 05 February 2021 | Investigation status: | Active | ||
| Time: | 1405 UTC (0035 CSuT) | Investigation level: | Defined - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
| Location (show map): | Approximately 235 NM (435 km) south-west of Adelaide | Investigation phase: | Evidence collection | ||
| State: | South Australia | Occurrence type: | Air/pressurisation | ||
| Occurrence category: | Serious Incident | ||||
| Report status: | Pending | Highest injury level: | None | ||
| Anticipated completion: | 1st Quarter 2022 |
Aircraft details
| Aircraft manufacturer | Airbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft model | A330-202 | |
| Aircraft registration | VH-EBK | |
| Serial number | 0945 | |
| Operator | Qantas Airways Limited | |
| Type of operation | Air Transport High Capacity | |
| Sector | Jet | |
| Damage to aircraft | Nil | |
| Departure point | Sydney, NSW | |
| Destination | Perth, Western Australia |