Ryanair Window Shattered by Engine Debris: NTSB Report 2026

The Ryanair window that shattered mid-flight was caused by engine debris, according to a preliminary NTSB report. The incident occurred on July 10, 2025, when a Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki, Greece, to Memmingen, Germany, experienced a catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff. The broken window led to a passenger being partially sucked out of the aircraft before fellow travelers pulled him back to safety.

NTSB Report Reveals Engine Fan Blade Failure

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) determined that a fan blade in the right engine broke off during climb, shattering the window and damaging the fuselage. The flight, operated by Malta Air, a Ryanair subsidiary, experienced a "No 2 (right) engine fan-blade-out (FBO) failure" according to the report. The crew received a high vibration alert, reduced engine power, and continued climbing, but vibrations increased dramatically, followed by a loud bang.

Timeline of the Incident

The NTSB detailed the crew's actions: they donned oxygen masks, declared an emergency, and initiated an immediate descent. The cabin depressurized, and the pilots returned to Thessaloniki for an uneventful landing. The passenger, 61-year-old Ljubisa Karović, suffered head and arm injuries but survived thanks to quick-thinking passengers.

Passenger Experience and Safety Implications

Karović, a Serbian entrepreneur, told the Guardian he was lucky to be alive. His wife reported he fainted several times after being pulled back inside. This incident highlights the importance of seatbelt use and the resilience of aircraft structures, but also raises questions about engine maintenance and inspection protocols.

Key Takeaways for Air Travelers

• Engine debris can cause catastrophic damage, but modern aircraft are designed to withstand such failures.
• Passenger cooperation and quick crew response are critical in emergencies.
• Always keep your seatbelt fastened when seated, even if the sign is off.
• NTSB investigations provide crucial data to improve aviation safety.

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