Overview
On January 1, 2025, a Delta Airlines Airbus A330-900, registration N408DX, operating flight DL-105 from Atlanta (ATL), USA, to São Paulo Guarulhos (GRU), Brazil, experienced an engine issue during initial climb. The crew reported a stall on the #1 engine (left-hand Trent 7000) and declared an emergency. The flight crew returned the aircraft safely to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, where it landed approximately 50 minutes after departure. No injuries were reported.
Incident Summary
Flight Details
• Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-900
• Operator: Delta Airlines
• Flight Number: DL-105
• Departure Airport: Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
• Destination Airport: São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
• People Onboard: Not disclosed
Sequence of Events
1. The aircraft departed from Runway 27R at Atlanta.
2. During climb, the flight crew reported a stall on the #1 engine.
3. The climb was stopped at 5,000 feet, and the crew declared an emergency.
4. The aircraft returned to Runway 27R at ATL for a safe landing approximately 50 minutes after departure.
5. Emergency services were on standby but were not required to intervene after landing.
Technical Analysis
Engine Stall Overview
An engine stall typically occurs when there is a disruption in the airflow through the engine, which can be caused by several factors:
1. Compressor Surge: A momentary disruption in airflow, possibly caused by bird ingestion or foreign object debris (FOD).
2. Component Failure: Internal damage to the compressor, fan, or turbine.
3. Environmental Factors: Severe weather, wake turbulence, or high crosswinds.
Likely Causes
• Trent 7000 Engine: The Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engine, while generally reliable, has specific operational sensitivities that require careful maintenance and monitoring.
• Potential Ingestions: The aircraft’s initial climb phase increases the risk of bird ingestion or other FOD causing damage to the engine’s compressor or fan blades.
• Mechanical Fault: A malfunction of the variable stator vanes or other engine control systems could also lead to a stall condition.
Crew and Operational Response
Crew Actions
The flight crew responded appropriately by:
1. Detecting the issue promptly.
2. Stopping the climb and declaring an emergency.
3. Coordinating a safe return to the airport.
Post-Landing Actions
• Emergency services confirmed no immediate hazards after landing.
• The aircraft was removed from service and underwent detailed inspection and maintenance.
Safety Implications
Immediate Actions
1. Inspection of the #1 Engine: A thorough examination of the engine, including a borescope inspection, to identify signs of damage or mechanical failure.
2. Data Review: Analysis of engine monitoring data and cockpit voice recordings to determine the sequence of events leading to the stall.
3. Environmental Review: Check for reports of bird activity or other potential FOD during the aircraft’s departure.
Long-Term Measures
1. Engine Reliability Programs: Rolls-Royce and Delta Airlines to collaborate on monitoring Trent 7000 performance metrics.
2. Maintenance Protocols: Enhanced inspections for early detection of compressor or fan blade wear.
3. Crew Training: Reinforcement of procedures for handling engine stalls during climb.
Conclusion
This incident demonstrates the critical importance of timely crew response and robust maintenance practices. The flight crew’s actions ensured a safe outcome, avoiding potential escalation. The investigation, led by the FAA and Delta Airlines, will provide further insights into the root cause and contribute to future safety enhancements.
Disclaimer
This report is based on all available evidence and facts at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologise if any details are missed or not fully accurate. If you are the rightful owner of any associated images and wish for their removal, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
