Flight Delayed After Passenger Throws Coins in Engine for ‘Good Luck’

This story serves as the perfect reminder that it’s never a good idea to throw anything into an aircraft’s engine (did anyone really need this reminder?). China Southern Flight 380 from Shanghai (PVG) to Guangzhou (CAN) was delayed more than five hours after an elderly woman threw coins into one of the A320’s engines for “good luck.”

According to other passengers, the woman, who appeared to be about 80 years old, was seen throwing coins at the engine from the middle of the boarding staircase. After passengers reported the incident to crew, maintenance personal inspected the aircraft’s engine. Their findings? Nine coins.

According to the South China Morning Post, the captain of the flight was quoted as saying that if the coins had not been removed, they could have been sucked up by the engine, which could have caused extensive damage and possibly even engine failure.

Passengers had already boarded the plane but were forced to deplane while mechanics checked the engine for coins. In all, the flight was delayed just more than five hours. While the investigation is still ongoing, China Southern said that passengers were reminded to comply with civil aviation laws and regulations, and any behavior that could jeopardize the safety of the flight is prohibited.

Source: thepointsguy.com