A Ryanair flight experienced a terrifying incident in Greece last month when a broken engine part shattered a window, causing a passenger’s head to be sucked out before being rescued by fellow passengers, according to U.S. investigators. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Thessaloniki, with a fan blade from the Boeing 737-800’s right engine breaking loose, damaging the window and fuselage. Bird remains found in the engine suggested a possible bird strike during takeoff. The injured passenger suffered neck and shoulder injuries.
Flight attendants reported hearing loud vibrations and seeing smoke in the cabin, prompting the deployment of oxygen masks. Passengers helped pull the man back inside the aircraft after he was partially sucked out of the damaged window. Video footage from inside the plane showed passengers wearing oxygen masks due to pressure loss.
Maintenance records revealed that the failed fan blades had undergone inspections with no prior damage detected. However, previous suspected bird strikes were reported on the same engine. The NTSB will investigate how these incidents may have contributed to the engine failure. Ryanair CEO was cautioned by the NTSB for speculating on the investigation’s focus.
The FAA had issued directives to strengthen engine coverings on Boeing 737s after previous incidents. Ryanair pledged cooperation with the investigation, along with Boeing and CFM International. The required modifications had not been made to the Ryanair plane as of the incident. The FAA may reconsider the deadline for these modifications in light of the recent accident.
The 737-800 involved in the incident, operated by Malta Air, landed safely back at Thessaloniki, with passengers returning to the terminal. Investigations are ongoing, with the NTSB working closely with the FAA to ensure necessary safety measures are implemented.