AAIB Investigates Ryanair Incident at London Stansted
The United Kingdom Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has launched an investigation into a high-speed nose-down pitch attitude during a go-around involving a Ryanair Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 at London Stansted Airport on December 4, 2023. The incident occurred when flight FR1269, traveling from Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) to London Stansted Airport (STN), experienced an abnormal descent during its approach.
The aircraft, registered as EI-HET, initiated a go-around and climbed to 4,425 feet before suddenly losing altitude. Flightradar24 data indicated significant altitude fluctuations, with the aircraft descending from 4,425 feet to 2,450 feet within a 45-second period.
After stabilizing at 3,000 feet, the aircraft made a second successful approach and landed safely at 11:14 local time. Ryanair subsequently took the aircraft out of service for two days, resuming flights on December 6, 2023.
During its descent, the Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 experienced an increase in ground speed, peaking at 277 knots. Despite the turbulence, the aircraft managed to complete its flight and proceed with the next scheduled itinerary.
Investigators are considering multiple factors, including weather conditions, which featured variable wind directions and light rain. Although the incident involved a high nose-down attitude, it is yet to be determined if the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) was a contributing factor. MCAS was developed to improve pitch stability but has been involved in past fatal crashes.
Ryanair’s prompt response included taking the aircraft out of service for inspection. By December 6, the aircraft resumed operations, completing flights between Stansted, Palanga, Dublin, and Knock Ireland West Airports.
This incident has raised questions about the Boeing 737 MAX 8-200’s safety features, particularly under adverse weather conditions. The AAIB’s investigation aims to determine the root cause and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
