An Envoy Air Embraer ERJ-145 had to return to Miami on Wednesday, August 19, after reports of a problem with the aircraft's anti-ice system. The nearly 22-year-old plane was operating as flight number MQ-3332/AA-3332 from Miami International Airport (MIA) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) in Ohio.
As the plane was climbing through 30,000 feet, the pilots stopped the ascent and requested to return to Miami following a bleed air issue that caused the anti-ice system to fail. The aircraft landed safely back in Miami some 75 minutes after departure, where according to The Aviation Herald, it remained on the ground for 105 minutes.
Once the air bleed system problem was diagnosed and repaired, the plane took off again for Columbus, landing in Ohio with a delay of two hours and ten minutes.
You would think that icing would not be a problem when flying from Florida to Ohio in the summertime, but the temperature is much colder at high altitudes. On most jet aircraft, hot air from the engines is funneled through piping to the wings, engine opening, and tail to prevent icing.
About Envoy Air
Envoy Air is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the American Airlines Group, flying under the American Eagle brand. As such, the Irving, Texas-based carrier works as a feeder airline for American Airlines. Considered one of the world's largest regional airlines, Envoy Air is an affiliate member of oneworld and has a fleet of 166 aircraft. 58 of the planes are ERJ-145s.
About the Embraer ERJ-145
The 50 passenger ERJ-145 is a twin-engine Brazilian-built jet that competes with Bombardier CRJ regional jets in the lucrative North American market. It is deployed on quick turnaround routes throughout the day. This gives airlines the ability to put larger aircraft on longer distance routes. Seating aboard the plane is in a 2+1 configuration, allowing every passenger to have a window or aisle seat.
What are your thoughts on the ERJ-145? Do you like it or would you prefer a bigger plane? Please let us know in the comments.