In brief
A Ryanair flight from Greece to Germany suffered a right engine fan‑blade failure shortly after takeoff, propelling debris into the cabin. The impact shattered a window, pulling Serbian passenger Ljubisa Karović’s head and shoulder into the wreckage. U.S. investigators report a sudden vibration increase, an audible bang, and emergency measures taken by the crew. Despite prior inspections, the incident raises concerns about maintenance and foreign‑object damage. The plane returned for a safe landing, and Greek authorities have given full investigative control to the NTSB.
A Ryanair Flight Encountered Major Engine Failure on Takeoff
During a flight from Thessaloniki, Greece to Memmingen, Germany on 10 July, the right engine of the Ryanair aircraft suffered a fan‑blade failure.
Engine debris shattered a cabin window, tragically pulling the head and right shoulder of Serbian national Ljubisa Karović into the hole. Medical staff and fellow passengers held the man until emergency crews arrived.
Investigators from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recorded the sequence of events. The crew first noted heightened vibrations, then reduced thrust and performed checks before the violent blow marked a sudden escalation of the vibration.
Despite a normal ultrasonic inspection in May, the failure happened, raising questions about maintenance and the chances of foreign‑object damage.
Mortal and physical trauma remain for the survivor, who remains "seriously injured and in shock." The aircraft returned to Thessaloniki for a safe landing, and the incident is under full investigation by Greek authorities.
