Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; Flight Crew Returned To Gate; Flight Crew Rejected Takeoff; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
Maximum weight takeoff. TOGA power was applied. Just prior to 80 KTS; there was a very loud bang and the aircraft began to turn left on the runway. As Captain; I rejected the takeoff. ECAM indicated left engine failure. Aircraft behind us reported a large flame had been seen from the left engine; but that had lasted only briefly. Flight Attendant also reported seeing the flame; but no fire visible after we stopped. We were very near the fire station; so we elected to leave the runway and have the fire crew inspect the exterior of the plane. They reported no leaks or other evidence of damage. We informed Dispatch and local Operations and then taxied back to the gate. Maintenance reported that the turbine disks were destroyed. Passengers were deplaned. We were given another aircraft to complete the flight.
An A321 Captain rejected a TOGA power takeoff after the left engine turbine section failed which triggered an ENG 1 FAIL ECAM.