2019-01-06
C-FWEP, a Bombardier DHC-8-400 aircraft operated by WestJet Encore, was conducting flight WEN3125 from Edmonton Intl (CYEG), AB to Kelowna (CYLW), BC. During the climb to cruising altitude after the departure from CYEG, the flight crew observed several caution messages related
to various electrical systems, and observed a dual AC generator failure. The fight crew declared a PAN PAN, and executed the appropriate QRH checklists. Following the QRH checklist completion,
the R TRU, PITOT HEAT 2, ENG ADAPT 2, DE ICE PRESS, and PUSHER SYST FAIL caution lights remained illuminated. The operator’s operational and maintenance control centres were
consulted. As the aircraft de-icing systems were no longer functional due to the AC system failure, the flight crew decided to divert to Calgary Intl (CYYC), AB where the aircraft landed without further
incident.
Upon inspection, the operator’s maintenance found evidence of arching from a 115 Volt, 3-phase AC supply feeder in the RH wheel well at the AC Contactor Box, connector plug assembly (2421-P5-2).