DHL Boeing 767 Freighter Experiences Aileron Jam Despite Compliance with Icing Mandates
A DHL Boeing 767 freighter encountered an aileron jam while flying over Scotland, despite having complied with all mandated modifications and inspections related to icing issues. The incident occurred during a flight from Reykjavik's Keflavik airport to East Midlands, 90 minutes into the journey at 35,000 feet. The aircraft's left inboard aileron began deflecting less than the right, leading to a significant differential. The force required to move the control wheel increased dramatically, reaching 15 times the normal level. The crew managed to resolve the issue by following quick-reference handbook actions, which involved both pilots applying maximum manual force to the control wheel. The inquiry revealed that previous incidents of ice affecting roll control had been addressed by Boeing, and the aircraft had undergone all necessary modifications.