Federal officials are taking an intensive look at an engine break-up this month that nearly destroyed a grounded plane because the failure may indicate a problem that was believed to have been eliminated three years ago.
American Airlines mechanics were testing a Boeing 767 when it caught fire, according to wire services.
There were no injuries but the incident was similar in nature to a United Airlines DC-10 flight back in 1989 where the engine cowling also did not hold and caught fire. The airplane’s crew brought the craft in with two surviving engines; 111 people were killed.
Another similar incident involved a Boeing 767 in 2000 when mechanics were testing engines by revving them to full power when they broke up and caught fire.
Other incidents promoted the Federal Aviation Administration to order inspections of parts involved. Engines were modified and FAA officials thought the problem was over.
The investigation is continuing.
Report by David Wilkening
