Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has withdrawn its entire fleet of Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircraft following a third landing gear incident yesterday (28 October) in Copenhagen.
SAS had only recently begun returning its 23-strong Q400 fleet into service following two landing gear incidents in three days, but now says that confidence in the aircraft has ”diminished considerably.”
Pictures from Danish television show the Q400 on final approach to Kastrup with the right main gear not deployed. The aircraft, operating as flight SK2687 from Bergen to Copenhagen, lands on the runway with sparks and smoke clearly visible, before fire engines arrive. All 44 passengers and crew evacuated safely.
”Confidence in the Q400 has diminished considerably and our customers are becoming increasingly doubtful about flying in this type of aircraft,” said SAS president and CEO, Mats Jansen.
”Accordingly, with the Board of Directors” approval, I have decided to immediately remove Dash 8 Q400 aircraft from service.”
The news will throw SAS” regional network into considerable upheaval as the airline cancels services, but passengers will be able to either rebook or have their tickets refunded.
SAS estimates that withdrawing the aircraft will cost it between SEK300m ($47.1M) for the rest of the year as it reviews the network and re-allocates aircraft. In total, 27 Q400 aircraft, including four from partner carrier, Wideroe - out of SAS” total 303-strong fleet will be affected ” 5% of overall capacity.
UK carrier, Flybe, says it will issue a statement later this morning concerning the future of its substantial Q400 fleet.