A320
Inflight Event / Encounter CFTT / CFIT
Flight Crew FLC complied w / Automation / Advisory; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Aircraft; Environment - Non Weather Related
Terrain warning sounded approximately 25 DME from PDX and the FOM escape maneuver was performed to 350 FT from the assigned altitude into VFR conditions.
We were on the HHOOD arrival into PDX; after passing HHOOD; and checking in; we were cleared direct to TOLOC fix for the ILS 28R. We were also cleared down to 6;200 FT which is the SHAFR crossing restriction altitude I believe. We received 2;500 FT radar altimeter call. We were then cleared to 5;200 FT and leveled out there. We received another 2;500 FT altimeter call. [We] then shortly thereafter received the 'terrain; terrain pull up' warning. The Captain initiated the maneuver. I told the Controller we received a terrain alert and that we were climbing. He stated something about us being at or above the minimum vector altitude for our area. Within seconds after this; we went VMC and were able to see the field and verify our position with outside references. We then called the airport in sight and were cleared for a visual approach. During the escape maneuver; we climbed to about 5;450 FT into VMC. We then proceeded to level out at about 5;500 FT or so before starting our descent. The GPWS warning was only a one time warning the ceased almost immediately. I believe the warning occurred at approximately 20 miles from the field. Nothing ever painted on our ND screen in regards to terrain on the EGPWS after passing Mt. Hood.
A320 flight crew experiences a GPWS terrain warning at 5;200 FT 20 NM east of PDX and take evasive action. ATC indicated that 5;200 FT was the correct altitude and above the MVA for the area. A visual approach and landing ensues.