Probable cause
The probable cause of the No. 2 engine failure and subsequent aborted takeoff was the high cycle fatigue failure of a fan blade near the blade root that resulted in extensive low pressure compressor damage and compressor case breach.
NTSB analysis
Based on metallurgical analysis, a fan blade in the No. 2 engine separated at the blade root due to a high cycle fatigue crack when the engines were accelerated for takeoff. The liberated blade entered the gas path and caused damage to the inlet guide vanes, the remaining fan blades, fan exit guide vanes, and low pressure compressor as it was ingested. The mid span shrouds on the remaining fan blades exhibited shingling and witness marks also consistent with impact from the separated blade. The crew reacted to the engine failure and were able to abort takeoff and safely stop the airplane on the runway surface.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ENG11IA043 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 6, 2011
- Type
- Incident
- Place
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-51
- N-number
- N676MC
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Minor
- Operating rule
- Part 121 (airline)
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.