A routine long-haul departure was abruptly halted when unusual noises during the takeoff roll led to a rejected departure and the discovery of a serious engine concern.
On Mar 23rd 2026, a KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Boeing 777-300, registration PH-BVP, operating flight KL-843 from Amsterdam to Bangkok, was accelerating for takeoff on runway 18L when the crew rejected the takeoff at low speed.
Air traffic control immediately informed the crew that two dull bangs had been heard in quick succession during the takeoff roll. The flight crew confirmed they had heard the noises as well, although at that moment no cockpit indications pointed to a specific fault.
As the situation developed, the crew received further information suggesting a possible issue with the right-hand General Electric GE90 engine, described as a potential “seizure.” Acting cautiously, the crew shut the engine down and taxied the aircraft back to the apron using the remaining engine.
The aircraft returned to the gate without further incident, allowing passengers to disembark safely while maintenance teams began inspections.
A replacement Boeing 777-300, registration PH-BVN, was arranged to continue the journey to Bangkok, arriving with a delay of approximately three and a half hours.
The affected aircraft remained on the ground in Amsterdam for at least 28 hours following the rejected takeoff as engineers conducted detailed checks.
Rejected takeoffs at low speed are a standard safety response when abnormal conditions are suspected. In this case, the crew’s prompt reaction to unusual sounds—combined with coordination from air traffic control—helped prevent a potentially more serious situation from developing.