AAIB Special Bulletin: Airbus A321-253NX (G-OATW), Damage to several cabin windows, London Stansted Airport
Special Bulletin concerning damage to several cabin windows on an Airbus A321-253NX (G-OATW) which departed London Stansted Airport on 4 Oct 2023.
Flood lighting on the left side of the aircraft
This Special Bulletin is published to raise awareness of a recent occurrence in which several cabin windows on an Airbus A321 were damaged by high power lights used during a filming event. The damage was discovered after takeoff on the aircraft’s next flight.
Work is ongoing with the aircraft manufacturer and operator to fully understand the properties of the lights used and how this risk can be managed in future.
Aircraft owners and operators should consider the hazard posed by such activities to minimise the risk of aircraft damage.