Re-Post Flight-By-Wire Failure (Full Episode)

Re-Post Flight-By-Wire Failure (Full Episode)

Author: Aviation International News December 17, 2019 Duration: 45:20
On Oct. 7, 2008, Qantas Flight 72 was flying over the Indian Ocean from Singapore to Perth, Australia. Kevin Sullivan, pilot-in-command of the Airbus A330, was flying on autopilot at 37,000 feet when suddenly warnings started sounding throughout the cockpit; the primary flight control computers were malfunctioning. The aircraft began to pitch down, and Sullivan realized he was just another passenger, for a short time unable to control the errant Airbus. After regaining control of the A330, Sullivan then had to decide whether to make an emergency landing at the nearest airport, the military field at Learmonth, or continue another hour and a half to Perth.

In this episode, Sullivan recounts how he was able to identify the issues affecting the A330's fly-by-wire flight controls and minimize damage while planning how how to keep his 303 passengers safe.

Sullivan continues his tale of Qantas Flight 72 and how he was able to land the aircraft at the military field at Learmonth Airport. He also speaks about how the experience affects him today.

In this episode we will hear from:

  • Kevin Sullivan, pilot-in-command of the Airbus A330
  • Bill Palmer, author of Understanding Air France 447 and A330 pilot
  • Gary Rower, A330 pilot, flight instructor and airshow performer
  • Malcolm Yeo, retired pilot and passenger on Qantas Flight 72

Topics in this episode include:

  • Primary flight control computer 
  • Fly-by-wire system operation
  • Equipment malfunction
  • Autopilot versus manual flying

There’s a story behind every landing, a decision in every cockpit, and a human element in every flight log. AIN's Tales from the Flight Deck, from Aviation International News, pulls back the curtain on those moments. This isn't about dry technical briefings or theoretical scenarios. Instead, each episode sits you in the jumpseat for candid, first-person narratives from pilots, controllers, and aviation professionals who have been there. You’ll hear the subtle tension in a voice recounting an unexpected weather encounter, the thoughtful pause before explaining a critical split-second choice, and the relief in sharing a lesson learned. The conversations are intimate and detailed, focusing on the real-world application of procedure and the nuanced judgment calls that define safety aloft. By prioritizing genuine experience over lecture, this podcast builds a profound understanding of aviation safety from the ground up. It’s for anyone fascinated by the realities of flight, whether you’re a seasoned aviator, an aspiring pilot, or simply someone who looks up at a passing airliner and wonders about the skill and stories inside. Tune in for a compelling, human-centered perspective that goes far beyond the headlines.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 34

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