Ryanair 737-800 experiences engine fan blade failure and cabin decompression

A Ryanair Boeing 737-800 turned back to Thessaloniki Airport on Friday after a fan blade in its right CFM International CFM56-7B engine failed, leading to a window rupture and cabin decompression, officials said. The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Committee of the Republic of North Macedonia reported the incident to U.S. safety authorities, and the NTSB has assigned an accredited representative to assist with the investigation. Technical advisors from the FAA, Boeing, GE Aerospace and Safran are also on standby.

The incident follows previous uncontained fan-blade events on Southwest Airlines 737-700 aircraft in 2016 and 2018, which prompted FAA airworthiness directives requiring inspections and redesign of engine inlets to improve containment. Compliance with those directives is due by July 31, 2028.

Ryanair confirmed that the flight landed safely and that one passenger required medical attention after the decompression event. A CFM spokesperson said the company is supporting its customers and the investigation, while Boeing said it is assisting the Macedonian investigation committee and remains in contact with Ryanair.