A350

FLEET 18-05

BULLETIN April 25, 2018

1 of 2

Subject: Incorrect Speed Brake Lever Position After Takeoff

Background
The purpose of this bulletin is to inform all A350 pilots of a temporary
requirement to ensure that the ground spoilers are properly disarmed after
takeoff. Airbus has received several reports of Autothrust fluctuation and fuel
over-consumption during flight, attributed to the undue extension of the
spoilers when the flight crew disarms the spoilers after takeoff. The condition
is caused when the SPEED BRAKE lever is inadvertently moved slightly out
of the stowed position. There is no immediate indication due to the fact that the
minimal amount of spoiler extension does not meet the ECAM triggering
threshold.
In this condition, the following are applicable:
• The F/CTL SPEED BRAKES STILL EXTENDED ECAM alert does
not trigger
• The slats/flaps display on the PFD does not indicate any spoiler
extension
• The F/CTL SD may not indicate any spoiler extension.
The consequences of this condition are:
• The A/THR soft mode does not engage and thrust variations may occur
• Fuel consumption increases.

Procedure
If at any time fuel consumption increases or thrust variations occur, check the
SPEED BRAKE lever is fully in the RET position.
After Takeoff
After disarming the ground spoilers after takeoff, ensure the SPEED BRAKE
lever remains in the RET position.

A350 Fleet Bulletin

A350 April 25, 2018
FB 18-05 2 of 2

Conclusion
A350 crews must be aware of the possibility of increased fuel consumption
and thrust variations due to undetected spoiler extension. An upcoming Flight
Control Guidance System software update will correct this issue by triggering
the F/CTL SPEED BRAKES STILL EXTENDED ECAM alert when the
SPEED BRAKE lever is not completely in the retracted position. This bulletin
will remain in effect until the software update has been loaded and verified.

Approved by:

Pat Dever Mike Doyle Roger Pfannenstiel

A350 A350 A350
Fleet Captain Chief Line Check Pilot Technical Manager

A350 Fleet Bulletin