ATR 42
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument
Situational Awareness; Workload; Distraction
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
During cruise PF (First Officer) noticed burning mark on left center of windscreen. Crew complied with QRH procedure by shutting off right windshield heater. Crew then noted an increase in size of burn laterally; and a burning smell. Very shortly thereafter; the outer windshield cracked and a loud bang accompanied it. The Captain [notified ATC] and directed the FO [First Officer] to move back to the jumpseat in case the windshield caved in. Captain elected to divert to ZZZ; which was 40 miles to our west and commence the ILS to Runway XX. FO set up the GPS; loaded the approach; briefed the approach; assisted with radio calls; and ran the remaining checklists from the jumpseat. Crew contacted [Dispatch] on the ground after safely parking the aircraft. Identification: visually via scan. Cause: right windshield heater malfunction. Suggestions: possible recommendation from company regarding whether to continue to destination or divert.
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
An ATR-42 flight crew reported the failure of the outer pane of the first officer's cockpit window; resulting in a diversion to the nearest suitable airport.