Engine explosion and subsequent fire during takeoff

No fatalities • Rome-Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci, Italy • Takeoff (climb)

An engine failure and subsequent fuel tank rupture led to a post-takeoff fire involving 65 occupants.

What happened

While performing the takeoff roll, the number one engine experienced a sudden explosion. During this event, fragments from the engine were ejected, striking the ground before bouncing upward and impacting the wing structure. This impact resulted in a rupture of the number two fuel tank.

In response to the failure, the crew initiated emergency braking maneuvers to halt the aircraft. The plane came to a complete stop while engulfed in flames. All 65 occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft quickly; however, 23 injuries were reported during the incident. The aircraft was subsequently destroyed by the fire.

Findings

Investigations into the incident concluded that the primary failure originated within the engine's internal components. Specifically, the explosion of the first engine was triggered by the disintegration of the compressor's first stage. The resulting debris path caused the secondary damage to the wing's fuel containment.

Probable cause

The disintegration of the first-stage compressor in the number one engine caused debris to rupture the number two fuel tank.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-04-19 Douglas DC-8 accident near Rome-Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci, Italy?

An engine failure and subsequent fuel tank rupture led to a post-takeoff fire involving 65 occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-04-19 Douglas DC-8 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-04-19 involved a Douglas DC-8, registration SE-DBE, operated by Scandinavian Airlines System - SAS, at Rome-Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci, Italy.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The disintegration of the first-stage compressor in the number one engine caused debris to rupture the number two fuel tank.

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