Following two un-commanded engine in-flight shut-downs caused by the inadvertent liquid spillage on the centre pedestal in the flight deck on Airbus A350 aircraft, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD).

The initial results of investigations point out that after the liquids appeared on the system, abnormal operation of ENG START panel or ECAM Control Panel (ECP) was noticed and engine relight attempts were not successful.

According to the AD, “this condition, if not corrected, could lead to a dual engine IFSD, possibly resulting in a forced landing with consequent damage to the aeroplane and injury to occupants”.

In light of possible risks, Airbus has indicated a “liquid prohibited zone in the cockpit“. Also, the relevant procedures that have to be followed if the spillage on the centre pedestal happens were defined.

The occurrences under investigation are the flights of Delta Air Lines and Asiana Airlines Airbus A350-900s involving liquid accidents. In both cases, the flight crew was forced to perform a diversion.