Investigation Continues Into Frightening Mid-Air Incident

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has shared an early update following the shocking incident in which a passenger was partially pulled out of a cabin window during a flight from Thessaloniki, Greece, to Memmingen, Germany.

According to O’Leary, preliminary evidence suggests the damage may have been caused by a foreign object striking the aircraft, although investigators have stressed that no final conclusion has been reached.

Passenger Seriously Injured

The incident involved 61-year-old Ljubiša Karović, who was sitting next to the affected window when it became dislodged shortly after takeoff. His wife, Svetlana, has said fellow passengers helped pull him back into the cabin after he was partially forced outside by the sudden loss of cabin pressure.

She later described him as suffering serious injuries and said both of them have been left deeply traumatized by the experience.

Crew Praised for Emergency Response

Ryanair praised the actions of the flight crew, who safely returned the Boeing 737-800 to Thessaloniki. The airline said all passengers were able to leave the aircraft safely after the emergency landing.

The company also said it has remained in contact with the injured passenger and his family while the investigation continues.

What Investigators Are Looking At

O’Leary said the initial indication points to possible foreign object damage during takeoff, which may have affected the aircraft. However, he emphasized that investigators have not confirmed the exact cause, and the findings remain preliminary.

The investigation is being led by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) with assistance from Ryanair and other aviation authorities. A preliminary report is expected within the coming weeks, followed by a final report after the investigation is complete.

Safety Remains Under Review

Ryanair says its fleet meets European aviation safety standards and noted that the aircraft involved had undergone engine maintenance within the past two years.

While questions remain unanswered, aviation experts say the official investigation will determine exactly what happened and whether any additional safety measures are needed.