American Airlines Flight AA-2597 faces mid-air trim issues.
Key Points:
- American Airlines Boeing 737-800, on its way to Burbank,CA from Dallas, faced a trim problem.
- The crew decided on runway 18R for landing, inquiring about its length and emergency services for a brakes check.
- Safe landing executed on runway 18R, with the aircraft vacating at the last exit.
FORT WORTH — An American Airlines Boeing 737-800, flying under the registration N952AA as flight AA-2597, encountered difficulties shortly after departing from Dallas Ft. Worth,TX to Burbank,CA. With 178 passengers onboard, the aircraft was in the ascent phase from Dallas' runway 17R when the crew signaled an issue. They communicated their desire to maintain an altitude of 8000 feet due to the detected problem.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the crew issued a PAN PAN PAN distress call, pointing out an issue with the plane's trim. The team was keen on identifying the longest available runway for a potential emergency landing. They queried the suitability of runway 18R, especially given that 18L had a reduced length, which was verified by the departure team.
Highlighting the anticipated challenges of an overweight landing, as the plane still had about 4 hours' worth of fuel, the crew sought confirmation for emergency assistance on landing. Their strategy was to utilize the entire length of the runway for the landing, after which they would move off and halt for a mandatory brakes inspection. They emphasized that this step was crucial before continuing operations.
Given the intense maneuver involved in the standard missed approach procedure, the crew also voiced concerns. They sought guidance for a direct route off the runway, minimizing sharp turns, should there be a need for a missed approach. Their cautious planning bore fruit when the aircraft successfully touched down on runway 18R, ensuring safety by utilizing its entire length and finally exiting at the terminal end.
