UA A320 at DEN: "Total Hydraulic Failure"?

[thepotato232]

http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_13609730?source=rss

In short, the report says that UA418 landed safely on 34L at DEN with a total hydraulic failure. As in NO control surfaces.

Has anyone here heard anything about this? The story has received virtually no attention, suggesting either the media is incorrect either about the extent to which the airplane was crippled, or simply has no idea what a "total hydraulic failure" generally means for the folks trying to fly the airplane.

As I understand it, an A320 that's lost all three hydraulic systems has no control whatsoever other than differential thrust, ala UA232. "Mechanical Backup", the mode to which the plane reverts in the event of a complete electrical failure, simply allows for the manual adjustment of the hydraulic valve of one of the trim tabs.

*Update: Just heard from a family friend with the FAA - so far, the official line from them is "Landed with total hydraulic failure."

 

[MCDU]

I bet they had blue hydraulics supplied by the RAT. Worse case they were in direct law. I hardly believe they landed in mechanical backup.

M

 

[thepotato232]

The story so far says "total hydraulic failure," including Blue. The RAT and direct law/mech. backup only apply when you've lost electrical...

 

[airplane wizard]

The media reporting a " total hydraulic failure " could be anything from a flat tire to a mid air.

 

[thepotato232]

Agreed - that's why I was hoping somebody here had heard something. So far, everyone from the news outlets to the (anecdotal) word from the Fed is saying the same thing.

 

[N1atEcon]

Where is Falcon (ballon boy) and his Dad? Great time to get some exposure.

 

[eaglesview]

The story so far says "total hydraulic failure," including Blue. The RAT and direct law/mech. backup only apply when you've lost electrical...

As a guy with 5 years on the airplane I assure you that is a completley inaccurate statement.

 

[Flying the Line]

http://avherald.com/h?article=42198d88&opt=0
Only lost one Hyd Sys, not all.

 

[thepotato232]

Ah, sounds like they most likely lost Green, requiring the tow to the gate. Thanks for clearing that up.

 

[B-atch]

Total hydraulic failure on the A320 = certain death...
Not even mechanical back up will save you'r a$$..