A Boeing 747-400 cargo aircraft registered as TC-ACF and operated by ACT Airlines, performing flight EK-9903 from Dubai (United Arab Emirates) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, experienced a critical technical malfunction shortly before landing.
While descending from cruising altitude to FL110 (approximately 11,000 feet), the aircraft’s right outboard engine (engine 4 – CF6) suddenly shut down. The cockpit crew initiated standard procedures to restart the engine, but despite repeated attempts, they were unable to bring it back online.
Nevertheless, the trained crew managed a controlled descent and landing over approximately 20 minutes, safely bringing the aircraft to Amsterdam using the remaining three engines. No injuries or casualties were reported, and no major disruption to cargo operations occurred.
It was stated that only the flight crew was on board, and no passengers were being transported. Following the incident, the aircraft was safely towed to the apron for maintenance.
Investigation Launched
While ACT Airlines has not issued an official statement regarding the incident, technical investigations into the engine failure have begun. It is understood that both the airline’s technical teams and national aviation authorities are monitoring the process.
The Boeing 747-400, a four-engine aircraft, is designed to safely continue flight and land in the event of a single engine failure. Aviation safety experts emphasise that following established procedures in such situations is critical to maintaining flight safety.
