Japan has grounded most Boeing 777s following the major engine malfunction on a United Airlines plane at the weekend.
An engine exploded causing debris to rain down over a Denver suburb dangerously close to houses.
Japan’s aviation regulator ordered Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways to stop flying 777s with the Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines.
Japan’s transport ministry said a JAL flight experienced a similar malfunction on 4 December and was forced to return to Naha Airport.
Separately, Boeing has recommended airlines ground more than 120 777 jets globally which use the P&W engines while inspections are carried out.
United Airlines said it has already temporarily grounded all its Boeing 777s.
Korean Air has grounded some Boeing 777s but South Korea hasn’t issued an official grounding order yet.
Its Transport Ministry said it is still monitoring the situation.
United Flight 328 returned to Denver shortly after a catastrophic engine failure.
The engine cowling was destroyed sending debris falling to the ground.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Editor
