Casualties unknown

Nozzle Lock Failure Leads to Rejected Takeoff of DC-10-30 (N14090)

Newark, NJ, US

On September 5, 2000, a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-10-30 (registration N14090) was involved in an aviation accident near Newark, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: All second-stage turbine nozzle locks failed, leading to an uncontained engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A DC-10-30 rejected takeoff after the number 2 engine failed uncontainedly due to failed second-stage turbine nozzle locks. Investigation revealed all nozzle locks had failed, exiting through a hole in the engine case.

Incident Overview

During takeoff, about five seconds after setting engines to 104% N1, the N1 on engine number 2 dropped to 78%, triggering engine fail and master caution lights. The takeoff was rejected, and the number 2 engine was shut down. After emergency personnel examined the aircraft, all engines were shut down, and the airplane was towed to the gate. Passengers deplaned via the jetway.

Investigation Findings

The investigation revealed that all second-stage turbine nozzle locks had failed. The nozzles exited through a hole in the engine case. This marked the second uncontained failure of a CF6-50 engine.

Previous Inspections

Following the first uncontained failure, a special inspection was initiated, which the aircraft had already received. Prior to departure, the number 2 engine had undergone a zone inspection, described as a general visual inspection. No failed nozzle locks were reported, but the inspection did not specifically address inspection of the nozzle locks.

Probable cause

All second-stage turbine nozzle locks failed, leading to an uncontained engine failure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22049. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.