KLM Boeing 777 Experiences Engine Failure An Hour After Takeoff

Simple Flying ^ | 10 May 2023 | CHRIS LOH

[DUMBGRUNT]

According to The Aviation Herald, the aircraft was performing its initial climb out of Amsterdam's runway 24 when the left-hand engine, a General Electric GE90, began to vibrate. However, as these vibrations remained within "acceptable ranges," the crew continued the climb to cruising altitude. The jet was enroute at an altitude of FL300, about 310nm westsouthwest of Amsterdam, in English Airspace, when a failure of the aircraft's number one engine occurred, prompting a diversion and the decision to return to Amsterdam. Referencing a map, this incident would have occurred somewhere above Swindon or Bristol.

...It's interesting that the aircraft flew across the English Channel and returned to Amsterdam with one engine 'out' rather than divert to a closer airport, such as one of the several suitable facilities in the London area. As a commenter noted on a similar Air France incident over London, flying further would have been acceptable as home base was still relatively close by. Additionally, the Boeing 777 may have had to burn off fuel in order to land within a safe weight.

[old curmudgeon]

The Aerostar uses aviation gasoline. It was refueled with jet fuel;.

[NorthMountain]

But would you just hop on the replacement for the long ride to Brazil?

Yep. I've spent plenty of time on airplanes.

[NorthMountain]

At FL350, the English Channel just isn’t wide enough to matter.

[linMcHlp]

“Sudden onset of [engine] vibration, even within allowable limits, should be a huge red flag.”

Correct

[SaveFerris]

Thanks

That’s what I figured

Sorry about your friend 😞