AAIB investigation to Airbus A319-111, G-EZMH
Smell of smoke in rear galley, London Gatwick Airport, 31 December 2016
Summary:
Excessive cabin heat was reported on the left side of the rear galley approximately 20 minutes from the top of descent into London Gatwick, but no obvious cause was identified. At about ten miles from the threshold of Runway 26R, cabin crew reported that smoke could be smelt in the rear galley; this was described as a “strong, sweet, hot, dusty electrical smell”.
The flight crew transmitted a PAN call to inform ATC, stating their intention to stop on the taxiway after landing in order to gain further information from the cabin. Attendance of the Airport Fire Service (AFS) was requested as a precaution. The initial actions of the ‘Smoke/Fumes’ QRH checklist were completed and the aircraft landed uneventfully and stopped on Taxiway J. The AFS examined the exterior of the aircraft before following it to the parking stand. Firefighters boarded the aircraft and checked the rear galley, but no source of heat or smell was found.
During subsequent maintenance checks the only finding was an inoperative beverage maker in the rear galley. This was replaced and the aircraft has since operated satisfactorily.
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