A fatal incident occurred at Schipol Airport in Amsterdam, The Netherlands on the afternoon of May 29, 2024. An individual was sucked into the engine of a running KLM aircraft, which was preparing to fly to Billund, Denmark as part of KLM’s Cityhopper service. The identity of the deceased has not been released.
Passengers on the flight reported hearing a disturbing “hellish noise” as the person was drawn into the jet engine. A passenger recounted to media outlets that many people witnessed the incident, adding to the distress of the situation.
KLM acknowledged the incident, stating, “A deadly incident occurred at Schiphol today when an individual was drawn into a running aircraft engine, resulting in their death. We are working to support the passengers and employees who witnessed this event. An investigation is currently underway.”
The investigation was led by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, the country’s military police force. They emphasized in their statement that all passengers and employees of the affected flight were disembarked and received necessary care.
One airport employee reportedly saw the man, an airport employee jump into the engine after the crew had given safety instructions. The investigation determined that the incident was a suicide. According to Dutch military police, “The investigation has revealed that he intentionally climbed into the engine, indicating this is a case of suicide.”
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, one of the busiest airports in Europe, expressed deep concern over the incident: “Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased. We are also providing support to passengers and colleagues who witnessed this tragic event.” The airport recognized the severity of the incident.
The Dutch Infrastructure Minister Mark Harbers offered his condolences on social media, stating, “Tragic news from Schiphol today as a fatal accident occurred. My condolences to the victim’s family and those who witnessed the incident.” Marjan Rintel, KLM CEO, echoed Harbers’ sentiments, assuring that all necessary support is being provided to those affected.
The incident has triggered concerns about safety, given Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s reputation as one of Europe’s safest and most efficient airports.
The Dutch Safety Board dispatched three investigators to the scene to conduct an independent investigation. They worked alongside the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee to identify any potential safety protocol failures that may have contributed to this tragic event.
While incidents of individuals being sucked into aircraft engines are rare, they are not without precedent. In other parts of the world, similar incidents have led to thorough investigations and revisions of safety procedures. In a similar incident last year, a 27-year-old employee at San Antonio International Airport in Texas tragically lost his life after being drawn into a Delta Airlines jet engine in an incident also ruled a suicide.
