MCDONNELL DOUGLAS DC-9-51 near Atlanta, GA — 2011-08-06

Probable cause

The probable cause of the No. 2 engine failure and subsequent aborted takeoff was the high cycle fatigue failure of a fan blade near the blade root that resulted in extensive low pressure compressor damage and compressor case breach.

NTSB narrative

Based on metallurgical analysis, a fan blade in the No. 2 engine separated at the blade root due to a high cycle fatigue crack when the engines were accelerated for takeoff. The liberated blade entered the gas path and caused damage to the inlet guide vanes, the remaining fan blades, fan exit guide vanes, and low pressure compressor as it was ingested. The mid span shrouds on the remaining fan blades exhibited shingling and witness marks also consistent with impact from the separated blade. The crew reacted to the engine failure and were able to abort takeoff and safely stop the airplane on the runway surface.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Mechanical failure

First missed decision gate

Performing engine maintenance as per advisory notice could have prevented failure.

NTSB coding

• Uncontained engine failure · Takeoff-rejected takeoff

Evidence available

• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Certification of Party Representative Formsform
• NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Reportform
• Captain's Statementinterview
• First Officer's Statementinterview
• Powerplants Factual Reportreport
• Powerplants Factual Report - Attachment 1 - Pratt & Whitney Materials Lab Reportreport

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