A319
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 200; Flight Crew Total 18800; Flight Crew Type 10688
Situational Awareness
ATC Issue All Types; Inflight Event / Encounter CFTT / CFIT
Flight Crew FLC complied w / Automation / Advisory; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Procedure; Human Factors
Off-airway vector for approach to runway 12R in SJC. NORCAL cleared us to descend to 5600 feet. (MVA and MSA alt 5600 feet). In IMC; both of us noted the terrain in area. [We] got [a] 2500 feet call out as expected as we crossed over ridge line. Shortly after; as [we were] descending through 5800 feet; [we got a] GPWS terrain warning. We immediately performed escape maneuver with Takeoff Go Around thrust. ATC was notified of our climb. We leveled off at 6600 feet. Once clear of the terrain; and with clearance from ATC; [we] descended back down to 5600 feet.
We [were] on the RAZZR4 Arrival into SJC. NORCAL took us off the arrival and cleared us direct ARTAQ on the ILS12R. We were Night IMC in the weather. We were cleared down to 5600 feet. We discussed the terrain ahead and kept a shallow descent [so as] not to trigger the GPWS. We got the 2500 foot call followed by the RA bouncing around. The lowest I noted was 1800 feet RA. The GPWS triggered TERRAIN TERRAIN followed by PULL UP. Performed the GPWS Escape Maneuver. Climbed to 6600 feet. The Captain notified ATC of the climb. ATC said 5600 feet is a safe vectoring altitude. After clearing the terrain we continued our descent and approach into SJC.
A319 flight crew reported receiving a GPWS terrain warning on a night IMC approach into SJC when they were vectored off the arrival. ATC reportedly assured the flight they were at a safe vectoring altitude.