No fatalities

Engine Overtemp and Compressor Stall During Descent (N154US)

Clarion, PA, US

On May 26, 1983, a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-10-40 (registration N154US) operated by Northwest Airlines, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Clarion, PA. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A crew experienced compressor stalls and overtemp conditions in all three engines during descent through turbulence, but successfully restarted the engines and landed safely.

What happened

The flight was proceeding during a descent phase when the aircraft encountered turbulent weather conditions. The crew observed that all three engines were exceeding their operational temperature limits, a condition known as overtemping. Simultaneously, the engines were experiencing compressor stalls, a disruption in the airflow through the engine's compression stages.

In an effort to mitigate the issue, the crew attempted to reduce throttle settings. However, these adjustments failed to lower the engine temperatures or resolve the mechanical instability. Despite the severity of the situation, no engines were shut down during this period of distress.

The crew initiated a diversion to a nearby airport to ensure safety. During the approach and landing phase, the crew successfully restarted all three engines. The aircraft landed without any further mechanical incidents or complications.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 May 1983 Mcdonnell Douglas DC-10-40 accident near Clarion, PA?

A crew experienced compressor stalls and overtemp conditions in all three engines during descent through turbulence, but successfully restarted the engines and landed safely.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 May 1983 Mcdonnell Douglas DC-10-40 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 May 1983 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-10-40, registration N154US, operated by Northwest Airlines, Inc., at Clarion, PA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42899. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.