A Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft operated by Malta Air on behalf of Ryanair was involved in an unusual but potentially serious incident shortly after departing Krakow on December 8, 2025. During the climb, a temporary loss of power on one engine occurred, caused by an unsecured object inside the flight deck, according to information published by The Aviation Herald.
The aircraft, registered 9H-VUE, was operating flight FR-3505 from Krakow to Milan Bergamo. After takeoff from runway 25 and while climbing through flight level FL080, a sun visor in the cockpit detached and struck one of the engine start levers. As a result of the impact, one LEAP engine shut down.
The flight crew immediately declared a PAN PAN, levelled off at FL100 and continued on the present heading while addressing the abnormal situation. A restart procedure was initiated shortly thereafter and was successful. After confirming normal engine operation, the crew cancelled the PAN PAN and decided to continue the flight to the planned destination.
The aircraft landed safely in Milan Bergamo approximately 90 minutes later without further complications. Following landing, the aircraft remained on the ground for about 50 hours before being returned to service.
Malta’s Bureau of Air Accident Investigation (BAAI Malta) classified the occurrence as an incident and has opened an investigation to determine the exact circumstances and to prevent similar events in the future. The incident highlights the importance of thorough analysis of even seemingly minor technical or cockpit components, which under certain conditions can have a direct impact on flight safety.
