Chris Lomas

 

 

The United Kingdom’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is currently probing an alarming incident that occurred on October 4, 2023 involving a Titan Airways Airbus A321neo, during which the aircraft climbed to a barometric altitude of 14,500 feet with three windows inexplicably missing and dislodged.

 

The aircraft, G-OATW, is just 2.5 years old and previously saw service as a VIP aircraft used by the British Government. The aircraft was operating flight AWC305Y from London Stansted Airport  to Orlando International Airport) at the time of the incident.

 

In addition to the AAIB, the French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) is also investigating. Categorizing it as a “serious incident”, the BEA revealed the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet when the flight crew discerned an unusual and excessive amount of noise within the cabin.

 

The BEA provided further insight into the situation, stating, “During the climb, at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet, the crew observed an unusual level of cabin noise, prompting the aircraft to execute a turn back to London Stansted.

 

It was subsequently determined that three windows were missing and dislodged, with additional damage to the left-hand stabilizer.”

 

On October 15, 2023, Titan Airways issued a statement regarding the incident, stating, “The crew became aware of increased noise in the cabin and an issue with one of the windows.”

 

“ The pilot did not declare an emergency and landed the aircraft safely, according to normal operating procedures. Emergency services at the airport were not activated.”

The airline further clarified, “The 21 staff members on board, who were being repositioned for their next scheduled flight, were unaffected and disembarked from the aircraft in the usual manner.

 

“ Following the landing, it was discovered that the outer panel of three windows was missing. The matter was immediately reported to the relevant authorities, and an investigation is now underway.”

 

The BEA provided further insight into the situation, stating, “During the climb, at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet, the crew observed an unusual level of cabin noise, prompting the aircraft to execute a turn back to London Stansted.”

 

“ It was subsequently determined that three windows were missing and dislodged, with additional damage to the left-hand stabilizer.”

 

This unexpected and mysterious incident involving a government-used Airbus A321 has left the aviation community inquisitive and demanding answers.

 

The ongoing investigations will be pivotal in unraveling the full extent of this unusual occurrence.

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