TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Civil Aviation Administration on Friday said it will investigate whether two EVA Air pilots breached regulations after declaring “mayday” during a runway closure at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
On Sunday, as a T'way Air flight from Jeju Island landed at the airport, its right main landing gear detached, prompting the temporary closure of the north runway, per CNA. As a result, three subsequent flights, two operated by EVA Air and one by Hong Kong Airlines, declared mayday distress signals due to low fuel.
The agency said it launched an investigation after the incident and completed crew interviews on Thursday. It also cited Article 57 of the Civil Aviation Act in ordering EVA Air to make immediate corrections for failing to preserve cockpit voice recorder and digital flight data recorder data.
It will also examine the timing of the pilots’ decisions to divert to alternate airports. Any regulatory violations will be handled in accordance with the law.
The agency pointed out that the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday runs from Feb. 14 to Feb. 22, during which time flight volumes are higher than usual. In the event of temporary ground incidents or runway closures, aircraft holding times may be extended, affecting flight scheduling and operational smoothness.
The regulator has instructed airlines to strengthen maintenance to ensure the reliability of aircraft equipment and enhance risk assessment measures to ensure flight safety. It is urging airlines to implement multiple preventive measures.
“Mayday” is the international distress signal used in aviation and maritime communications to indicate grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance. It signals a life-threatening emergency, distinct from less urgent “pan-pan” calls.
