A B767-300 Flight Attendant reported a catastrophic engine failure during climb out which created smoke and fumes in the cabin. The flight returned to the departure airport.

Date: 2010-11 · Aircraft: B767-300 and 300 ER · Phase: climb

Anomalies: aircraft-equipment-problem-critical|flight-deck-cabin-aircraft-event-smoke-fire-fumes-odor

Synopsis

A B767-300 Flight Attendant reported a catastrophic engine failure during climb out which created smoke and fumes in the cabin. The flight returned to the departure airport.

Narrative

After 10 to 15 minutes from take off I was just standing up from my jumpseat and I heard a noise as an explosion just under G4/G5; at the right side; where I was. The noise was very loud and I felt the aircraft lose power and do some unusual movement. At that moment Flight Attendant four called the cockpit immediately. When one of the cockpit crew answered they said 'Emergency checklist' and that we where going to land. I was waiting for the Purser to call us but as it didn't happen we called her and she said that it was a 'NO' emergency checklist. We noticed a burning smell and kept looking at the right engine. I could see some orange and red lightning coming from the side of the engine. At some point we felt the aircraft trembling. People kept looking at us. The Captain did a PA and I translated to Portuguese. I kept translating the PA's and asking the passengers to please remain in their seats with their seatbelts fastened. The odor continued for some minutes and then I didn't smell it anymore. We went back to the departure airport and landed. It was a very hard landing. But the aircraft kept going; apparently with no problem; to the gate. Passengers at the very back of the aircraft where clapping their hands. When the aircraft stopped at the gate; the First Officer came to the back to take a look at the right engine. Passengers were asked to deplane with all their belongings after a few minutes when the agents opened the door. Some passengers were crying.

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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.