Portland International Airport was the scene of an alarming incident yesterday when an Alaska Airlines flight experienced a rapid decompression event in mid-air. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been working diligently to gather information and shed some light on what transpired during the flight.
According to the data retrieved from the flight data recorder, the incident occurred at 1706.47 Pacific Standard Time, shortly after the aircraft took off from Runway 28L. At an altitude of approximately 14,830 feet and a speed of 271 knots, the recorded cabin pressure suddenly dropped from 14.09 to 11.64 pounds per square inch. This drastic change triggered a warning related to cabin altitude exceeding 10,000 feet and activated the master caution.
The NTSB's Survival Factors team conducted interviews with the flight attendants to gain insight into the challenging situation they faced. The attendants mentioned that the lack of communication and information during the event made it a terrifying experience. Their focus was on ensuring the safety of passengers, especially the four unaccompanied minors and the three lap children on board. However, due to their seating positions, they had difficulties observing the situation in the cabin and aisle, causing additional challenges in managing the situation.
In a surprising revelation, it was discovered that the cockpit door is designed to open during rapid decompression. However, this crucial information was not known to any member of the flight crew. As a result, Boeing has committed to updating the manual to ensure that both flight attendants and cockpit crew are aware of this feature, ultimately enhancing safety procedures.
Regarding the oxygen mask system, initial uncertainty about its deployment was dispelled by interviews with passengers sitting in the affected row. They confirmed that the masks had indeed deployed, contrary to earlier suspicions. The NTSB has requested further information from Boeing to better understand why the cabin pressure control system malfunctioned. However, it is worth noting that there is currently no evidence linking this issue to the rapid decompression event.
The investigation also touched on procedural matters, with Alaska Airlines voluntarily implementing an additional safety measure. The airline restricts aircraft with multiple maintenance issues from flying Extended Twin Engine Operations (ETOPS) flights for a designated period. Although this restriction is not mandated by regulations, it highlights the airline's commitment to maintaining safety standards and conducting necessary maintenance.
In terms of physical evidence, the NTSB is actively searching for the missing bottom hinge fitting and a sizable green circular spring. While these pieces are not considered crucial to the investigation, they could provide valuable information if found. Anyone with information regarding these missing parts is urged to contact the NTSB or local law enforcement.
Overall, the NTSB expressed gratitude to the community for their continued cooperation and assistance throughout the investigation. It is evident that uncovering the details behind this incident will require thorough analysis and collaboration between the NTSB, Alaska Airlines, and Boeing. As the investigation progresses, the collective efforts of all parties involved aim to enhance aviation safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
