Incident Overview
On October 4, 2007, an LTU Airbus A330-300, registered as D-AERK, experienced an unusual and hazardous event shortly after departing Düsseldorf Airport (DUS). While climbing away from the airport, the aft fan cowls on both sides of the No. 1 engine separated from the aircraft. The liberated panels struck the airframe, causing damage to the right wing, the fuel tank, and the flaps.
Flight and Response
Following the cowl separation, the flight crew observed abnormal engine indications and performed an in-flight shutdown of the No. 1 engine. The aircraft was then diverted back to Düsseldorf, where it executed an uneventful landing. All 123 persons on board—passengers and crew—were uninjured.
Investigation
Accredited investigators from the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Investigation (BFU) are leading the probe into the incident. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is participating as an accredited representative. Pratt & Whitney, the engine manufacturer, is serving as a technical advisor, and Airbus is providing support to the BFU.
Damage and Findings
The impact of the separated cowls caused visible damage to the right wing structure, the fuel tank, and the flap system. The exact extent of the damage has not been detailed in the initial release. The BFU will continue to analyze the sequence of events and the condition of the affected components as part of its investigation.
Conclusion
No probable cause has been determined at this stage. The investigation remains under the jurisdiction of the German government, and further information will be released as it becomes available.