Engine fire warning — Jetstar A320, Brisbane departure

Summary

A Jetstar Airbus A320 received an engine fire warning on climb-out from Brisbane Airport at 3,000 ft. The crew declared MAYDAY, shut down the right engine and returned for a single-engine landing. Post-flight inspection found no evidence of a fire; the warning was caused by a heat sensor cable chafing against the engine nacelle structure.

Investigation Findings (4)

1. 01No fire had occurred; the false alarm was caused by a faulty heat sensor connection.
2. 02The crew's adherence to standard operating procedures was commendable.
3. 03Jetstar's maintenance records showed the faulty sensor had been flagged for deferred maintenance three flights prior.
4. 04Jetstar revised its MEL deferral policy to require a detailed risk review before flight with a deferred fire detection system component.