Ryanair investigates mid-air window damage on Boeing 737 flight

On July 10, a Ryanair Boeing 737 aircraft experienced a mid-air emergency shortly after departing from Thessaloniki, Greece, bound for Germany. A piece of the engine detached and struck a window, causing a loss of cabin pressure and a forced landing. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary stated that preliminary investigations suggest foreign object damage to the engine during takeoff. The airline denies allegations that the incident was caused by the age of the 18-year-old aircraft or poor maintenance, noting the engine was overhauled within the last two years. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are currently investigating the incident. A draft report is expected in approximately 28 days. This event is being compared to similar incidents involving Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 NG aircraft in 2016 and 2018, prompting a review of safety protocols by the FAA.