Incident
An Airbus A319-131, registration G-EUOE, experienced the separation of engine cowls from both International Aero Engines V2500 engines during departure from London-Heathrow International Airport. The cowls fell onto the runway. The pilots declared a PAN and reported their intention to return to Heathrow.
Response
During the approach to Heathrow, a fire developed in the right engine. The pilots declared an emergency, shut down the engine, and discharged both fire bottles. After landing, the aircraft stopped on the runway, where the fire brigade extinguished a small fire in the right engine. Passengers and crew evacuated via emergency slides on the left side of the aircraft.
Investigation
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) of the United Kingdom is investigating the accident. As the state of engine manufacture, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has designated a U.S. Accredited Representative under Annex 13 to the Convention on Civil Aviation to assist the AAIB. Inquiries should be directed to the AAIB.