{"id":94153,"date":"2025-05-10T00:11:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-09T18:41:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/?p=94153"},"modified":"2025-05-23T21:54:51","modified_gmt":"2025-05-23T16:24:51","slug":"british-airways-777-fire-amid-pilot-error-aaib","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/index.php\/2025\/05\/10\/british-airways-777-fire-amid-pilot-error-aaib\/","title":{"rendered":"British Airways Boeing 777 Caught Fire Amid Pilot Error: AAIB"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

LONDON-<\/strong> A British Airways (BA)<\/a> Boeing 777 caught fire at Gatwick Airport (LGW) on June 28, 2024, due to a co-pilot error during takeoff. The incident, detailed by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), caused a 50-minute runway delay but no injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The co-pilot\u2019s mistake involved misjudging a lever, leading to a brake fire on the aircraft bound for Vancouver (YVR).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"British
Photo: Andrew Thomas | Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

British Airways Pilot Error<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On June 28, 2024, a British Airways (BA) Boeing 777<\/a>, carrying 334 passengers and 13 crew members, was set to depart Gatwick Airport (LGW) for Vancouver International Airport (YVR). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During takeoff, the co-pilot, with over 6,100 hours of flying experience, mistakenly moved a thrust lever to the left instead of the right. This error reduced the aircraft\u2019s thrust as the commander called for the plane to ascend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The co-pilot briefly increased thrust again before aborting the takeoff, stopping the aircraft well before the runway\u2019s end. The incorrect maneuver caused the brakes to overheat, igniting a fire in the landing gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fire services quickly extinguished the blaze, and the aircraft was brought to a safe stop. The AAIB report noted the co-pilot\u2019s surprise at the error, stating he could not identify its cause. His last flight was two weeks prior, suggesting no immediate fatigue or scheduling issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

British Airways (BA) emphasized safety, with a spokesperson stating, \u201cOur pilots brought the aircraft to a safe stop, prioritizing passenger and crew safety.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No injuries occurred, and passengers were safely evacuated. The incident disrupted operations, closing the runway for 50 minutes at Gatwick Airport (LGW), a major hub for British Airways (BA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"British
Photo: Cado Photo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Safety Protocols and Investigation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The AAIB\u2019s investigation focused on human error as the primary cause. The co-pilot\u2019s mix-up\u2014confusing left and right levers\u2014highlights the critical nature of cockpit procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the co-pilot\u2019s extensive experience, the mistake underscores that even seasoned pilots can err under pressure. The AAIB report did not cite mechanical issues with the Boeing 777, confirming the fire resulted from brake overuse during the aborted takeoff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

British Airways cooperated fully with the AAIB, reinforcing its commitment to safety. The airline\u2019s training programs, which include regular simulator sessions, aim to minimize such errors. The incident prompted a review of cockpit procedures to prevent similar mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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