Aer Lingus Pilot May Have Been Tired During Botched Landing, Investigation Finds

An Aer Lingus pilot who experienced a frightening botched landing in January 2025 may have been tired, an investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) has concluded. The pilot had reported not sleeping well the night before the flight from Faro, Portugal, to Dublin Airport.

During the landing attempt, a mid-air alert was triggered when the aircraft experienced a steep 44-degree angle on descent, exceeding the standard 33-degree safety limit. The AAIU described the incident as an 'aircraft upset,' meaning the plane, carrying 146 passengers, deviated from its normal flight parameters.

According to the report, the flight commander stated his preference was for late duties, but his two most recent flight duty periods were early shifts, preceded by a "blank day." He indicated he did his best to manage his rest before reporting for duty. Air traffic controllers inquired if the pilots required additional track miles to properly align the descent. However, the aircraft became too high and fast on the approach, leading the commander to disconnect the autopilot to deploy speed brakes.

This action resulted in 'degraded situational awareness,' and the aircraft's speed dropped. Automatic low-speed protection systems engaged, preventing a potential disaster. The commander then applied takeoff thrust, causing the aircraft to climb to 4,200 feet, surpassing its cleared altitude of 3,500 feet.

The crew aborted the landing and, on a second approach, landed the aircraft safely. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft sustained no damage.

Following the incident, Aer Lingus implemented new procedures, prohibiting pilots from performing orbit maneuvers during approaches except in training. The airline also began advising crews to initiate a go-around if there is any uncertainty about a safe landing. The AAIU report concluded without issuing further safety recommendations, noting that an analysis of the commander’s roster indicated a fatigue-risk level within acceptable operational ranges. A statement from Aer Lingus acknowledged the report and the absence of new safety recommendations.