Flight diversion ordered by pilot: Düsseldorf route adjustment required
On Sunday, Condor Flight DE 3665, en route to Düsseldorf from Corfu, was forced to make an unscheduled landing in Brindisi, Italy. The aircraft, carrying 273 passengers and 8 crew members, had to divert due to a malfunction in one of its engines shortly after takeoff.
Shortly after reaching an altitude of around 36,000 feet, the turbine airflow was disrupted, causing sparks and visible flames near the right-wing engine. Despite witness reports, Condor Airlines stated that there was no engine fire. The crew detected engine instrument readings deviating from normal ranges, leading them to declare an emergency and divert the flight to Brindisi, Italy, approximately 200 km away. The aircraft landed safely after about 40 minutes in the air with no injuries reported.
The cause of the malfunction is currently under investigation. It is believed that the issue was due to an external abnormal combustion process occurring in one of the aircraft's Rolls-Royce RB211 engines, leading to disrupted turbine airflow.
Passengers described a terrifying experience as they saw flames and experienced power fluctuations. The airline has the affected aircraft undergoing a technical inspection to determine the detailed cause of the engine irregularity.
Condor Airlines apologised for the inconvenience caused by the forced landing and overnight stay. Blankets and supply vouchers were organised for passengers staying at the airport. Some passengers had to stay at the airport in Brindisi due to a lack of hotel capacities.
Passengers who took advantage of alternative accommodation options can submit their costs for reimbursement. The incident did not occur in Greece, but the source does not specify the location of Easyjet Flight's diversion. Greek media reported the incident based on information from authorities.
In summary, the engine malfunction on Condor Flight DE 3666 was caused by an abnormal combustion process occurring externally due to a malfunction in one of the aircraft's Rolls-Royce RB211 engines. This led to flames erupting near the right-wing engine, accompanied by an abnormal airflow disturbance inside the engine, which triggered alerts in the cockpit. The effect was visible flames near the engine, cockpit alerts, emergency diversion to Brindisi, but the outcome was safe emergency landing, no injuries, and an ongoing investigation.
- The community is advised to review the airline's updated community policy regarding emergency situations and aircraft maintenance, especially for flights using Rolls-Royce RB211 engines.
- To alleviate potential financial burdens, passengers affected by the incident may seek vocational training in the aviation or transportation sectors upon their return, with scholarships provided by Condor Airlines in partnership with local vocational institutions.
- Upon resumption of normal operations, Condor Airlines has arranged for a sports day event for the affected passengers and crew in various locations, including Corfu, Düsseldorf, and Brindisi, to foster a sense of unity and camaraderie within the community.
