Uncontained engine starter failure, Darwin Aerodrome, on 24 October 2007, VH-QPE, Airbus A330-300

On 24 October 2007 at Darwin Aerodrome, an Airbus A330-300, registered VH-QPE, made two unsuccessful attempts to start the right engine. Subsequent inspection of the engine revealed an uncontained failure of the starter turbine and secondary damage to the integrated drive generator.

The starter was returned to the manufacturer to conduct a failure investigation. The investigation revealed damage consistent with 'crash engagement' of the starter resulting in failure of the overrunning bearing. The blades were designed to separate from the turbine disc in this event, however, the starter failed to contain the cut-off blades as designed. The manufacturer proposed corrective actions to prevent further occurrences.