Overview
• Operator: Asiana Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A330-300
• Registration: HL7747
• Flight Number: OZ-766
• Route: Chiang Mai (Thailand) → Seoul (South Korea)
• Date: 25 January 2025
• Occupants: ~270 passengers and crew
• Nature of Incident: Rejected takeoff due to engine anomaly
• Investigation: Under review
Incident Summary
Asiana Airlines flight OZ-766, operated by an Airbus A330-300, was preparing for departure from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) when the crew identified an engine anomaly during the takeoff roll. The takeoff was rejected at a low speed of approximately 12 knots over the ground. The aircraft subsequently returned to the apron for further assessment.
Passengers onboard reported seeing sparks and flames coming from one of the engines, prompting concerns about a potential engine failure or compressor stall.
Asiana Airlines confirmed the aircraft aborted takeoff as a precaution due to an observed engine issue, but no further details were provided on the severity of the malfunction.
The aircraft remained grounded in Chiang Mai for over 26 hours following the rejected takeoff while engineers assessed the situation.
Sequence of Events
Pre-Takeoff Phase
• The aircraft was aligned for departure on runway 36 at Chiang Mai International Airport.
• Throttle application commenced, but the crew identified an engine anomaly.
Rejected Takeoff Decision
• The takeoff roll was aborted at low speed (~12 knots over ground) before reaching higher acceleration phases.
• The aircraft exited the runway safely and returned to the departure apron.
Passenger Reports
• Several passengers reported sparks and flames coming from one of the engines.
Aircraft Status
• Engineers began assessing the affected engine for possible mechanical failure, fuel combustion issues, or compressor stalls.
• The aircraft was declared unfit for flight pending further inspection and maintenance checks.
Possible Causes & Technical Analysis
The exact cause of the engine anomaly remains under investigation, but potential issues include:
1. Compressor Stall or Surge – A rapid airflow disruption inside the engine, leading to visible flames and sparks.
2. Fuel Flow Irregularities – Excess fuel or improper combustion could have triggered flame-out events.
3. Turbine or Compressor Blade Damage – Engine foreign object damage (FOD) or wear-related issues could cause internal blade failure.
4. Sensor Malfunction or False Indications – Possible erroneous engine readings leading to a precautionary rejection of takeoff.
The crew’s decision to reject takeoff was aligned with standard safety protocols to prevent potential catastrophic engine failure after liftoff.
Aircraft Status & Investigation
• The aircraft remained grounded in Chiang Mai for over 26 hours following the incident.
• The affected engine underwent detailed inspections to assess damage or required repairs.
• The airline has not yet disclosed whether the engine will be replaced or repaired on-site.
Safety Considerations & Industry Best Practices
• Rejecting takeoff at low speed minimises stress on aircraft components and prevents further complications.
• Engines should be inspected for possible foreign object damage (FOD), fuel flow anomalies, or mechanical failures.
• Passenger reports of visible flames warrant a thorough combustion system assessment to prevent reoccurrence.
• Flight crews are trained to recognize and react promptly to engine irregularities, ensuring passenger safety.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 26 January 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
