Uncontained Engine Failure During Climb Over Ocean

Casualties unknown • Los Angeles, CA, US

An aircraft experienced an uncontained high pressure compressor failure while climbing through 6,200 feet, resulting in the loss of power from the number one engine.

What happened

While climbing through 6,200 feet MSL over the ocean following takeoff, the crew heard a loud bang and observed the number one engine fire annunciator light illuminate. Following this event, power from the engine decreased to zero. The crew secured the engine, and the flight returned to the departure airport, landing without further incident. There was no fire during the event, and all passengers disembarked at the terminal gate. The aircraft sustained minor damage.

The investigation

An examination of the engine revealed that it had suffered an uncontained failure of the high pressure compressor. Specifically, the 6th stage disk of the 3-to-9 compressor spool was found to be completely missing from the engine. The disk itself was not recovered, and investigators were unable to determine the exact failure mode.

Probable cause

The engine experienced an uncontained failure of the high pressure compressor due to a missing 6th stage disk, which may be attributed to dwell time fatigue caused by titanium crystal microstructure colonies formed during forging and manufacturing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-10-19 Airbus Industrie A-300-605R accident near Los Angeles, CA?

An aircraft experienced an uncontained high pressure compressor failure while climbing through 6,200 feet, resulting in the loss of power from the number one engine.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-10-19 involved a Airbus Industrie A-300-605R, registration N41063, operated by American Airlines, at Los Angeles, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?