AAIB investigation to Boeing 737-377, G-CELF
Electrical failure, on departure from Leeds Bradford Airport, 2 August 2013.
Summary:
The aircraft suffered an electrical failure after departure, which led to the loss of the commander’s primary flight instruments, navigation equipment and other electrical services. There was also a smell of electrical burning in the passenger cabin, so an immediate return to the airport was carried out.
The loss of power was caused by a fatigue failure of the terminal lug on the end of the No 1 generator phase ‘A’ ground cable. An inspection revealed a number of other lugs which had cracked in the same location, two of which were close to failing in the same manner. The lugs had probably cracked as a result of a combination of engine vibration, a rough surface finish and bending of the lug during installation.
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