Incident
On January 24, 2008, at approximately 5:45 PM, a Cessna C208B Caravan, registration 6Y-JRG, operated by Rutair Limited under the name International Air Link, departed from Tinson Pen Aerodrome in Kingston, Jamaica. The aircraft was on a scheduled flight to Montego Bay International Airport with two pilots and seven passengers aboard.
According to the captain, a few minutes after takeoff, while climbing through 4,000 feet above sea level, an explosion was heard from the engine compartment. The Ng (gas generator speed) rapidly decreased below 50%, and the ITT (inter-turbine temperature) increased through 800 degrees Celsius. The captain shut down and secured the engine, then made a successful landing back at Tinson Pen Aerodrome. No injuries were reported, and no further damage occurred to the aircraft.
Investigation
Initial examination of the engine, a Pratt and Whitney PT6A-114A (serial number PCE0949), was conducted by a Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) Airworthiness Inspector. The inspection revealed extensive damage to the power turbine disc and the compressor turbine disc. The inlet and nozzle guides for both turbines were also damaged. No other damage to the aircraft was found, and no obvious cause of the engine damage was identified.
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Jamaica. Further information may be obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority.