Description

This article provides guidance for controllers on what to expect and how to act when dealing with aircraft experiencing the consequences of electrical problems and related aircraft systems' malfunctions. There are some considerations which will enable the controller, not only to provide as much support as possible to the aircraft concerned, but also to maintain the safety of other aircraft in the vicinity and of the ATC service provision in general.

Useful to Know

Depending on the severity of the electrical failure(s) the consequences could be various, ranging from isolated system or subsystem malfunctions and navigational problems to failures having adverse effects on the aircraft's handling and performance. Historically, the electrical failures often result from interconnection breakdown between aircraft systems. For example, a problem with one system could lead to a bus bar failure potentially resulting in a complete or partial failure of an airplane's avionics system.

An electrical problem may be the first indication of a fire.