Introduction
On 14 March 2025, a Malaysia Airlines Boeing 737-800, registration 9M-MSB, operating flight MH-705 from Manila (RPLL) to Kuala Lumpur (WMKK), experienced engine problems shortly after takeoff.
During the initial climb, the left-hand engine (CFM56) emitted a loud bang and visible flames, prompting the crew to suspect a bird strike. The aircraft stopped its climb at 3,000 feet, entered a holding pattern, and subsequently returned to Manila for a safe landing approximately 35 minutes after departure.
The flight was cancelled, and the aircraft remains on the ground at Manila as of 16 March 2025, approximately 57 hours after landing.
Flight & Incident Overview
• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800
• Operator: Malaysia Airlines
• Flight Number: MH-705
• Route: Manila (RPLL) → Kuala Lumpur (WMKK)
• Date: 14 March 2025
• Occupants: Unknown number of passengers and crew
• Injury Report: No reported injuries
• Aircraft Damage: Left-hand engine (CFM56) suspected damage
• Investigation: Under review by Philippines Civil Aviation Authority (CAAP)
Sequence of Events
Takeoff & Initial Climb
• The aircraft departed Manila’s Runway 06, climbing as per normal procedures.
• Shortly after takeoff, passengers heard a loud bang and observed flames coming from the left-hand engine.
• The aircraft began to vibrate, which was reported by multiple passengers.
Crew Response & Return to Manila
• The crew suspected a bird strike and decided to halt the climb at 3,000 feet.
• Standard operating procedures were followed, with the crew declaring an emergency and requesting an immediate return to Manila.
• The aircraft entered a holding pattern to conduct the required checklists and burn fuel if necessary.
• ATC facilitated a priority landing, and the aircraft safely landed on Runway 06 approximately 35 minutes after departure.
Post-Landing Inspection & Flight Cancellation
• Upon landing, the aircraft was met by emergency response teams who confirmed no visible fire or immediate external damage.
• Initial inspections suggested engine damage, likely due to foreign object ingestion (FOI) or bird strike.
• The flight was cancelled, and passengers were rebooked onto alternative flights.
Investigation & Findings
1. Suspected Bird Strike
• The loud bang and flames from the left-hand engine are consistent with a bird strike or compressor stall.
• Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has documented wildlife activity, increasing the likelihood of bird ingestion during low-altitude flight phases.
2. Potential Engine Damage
• The CFM56 engine is designed to withstand bird strikes up to a certain mass, but high-speed ingestion can cause internal damage.
• Damage assessment will determine whether fan blades, compressor sections, or internal components were affected.
3. Engine Shutdown & Crew Decision-Making
• The crew acted appropriately by halting the climb and prioritizing a return to Manila.
• ATC provided a quick clearance for landing, ensuring a safe and controlled approach.
4. Flight Cancellation & Aircraft Grounding
• The aircraft remains grounded at Manila as of 16 March 2025 pending a full engine inspection and potential repairs.
Safety Analysis & Contributing Factors
1. Engine Susceptibility to Bird Strikes
• Bird strikes at low altitudes during takeoff and landing are a known risk at major airports.
• Philippines aviation authorities may need to review wildlife hazard management at NAIA.
2. Crew’s Rapid Response & Flight Management
• Timely identification of the issue and returning to Manila minimised risk.
• Proper checklist execution prevented a potential in-flight engine failure or damage escalation.
3. Airport & ATC Support
• Effective ATC coordination ensured a quick return and emergency services standby.
Safety Recommendations & Preventative Measures
1. Enhanced Bird Strike Mitigation at NAIA
• Increased bird control measures around Runway 06 and airport perimeters.
• Regular wildlife monitoring and bird deterrent technology.
2. Engine Damage Assessment & Inspection
• Full borescope inspection of the left-hand engine to check for internal damage.
• Oil analysis & vibration monitoring to assess potential secondary issues.
3. Passenger Awareness & Communication
• Improved passenger briefings during in-flight emergencies to reduce panic.
Conclusion
The Malaysia Airlines Boeing 737-800 (9M-MSB) incident on 14 March 2025 was caused by a suspected bird strike, leading to engine failure symptoms shortly after takeoff from Manila.
The crew’s quick response, emergency protocols, and ATC coordination ensured a safe return to Manila.
The aircraft remains grounded as of 16 March 2025, pending further inspection and potential repairs.
Future preventative measures will focus on improved bird control, engine monitoring, and continued crew training for rapid in-flight decision-making.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 16 March 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.”
