A few years ago, a Delta MD-11 from ATL-FRA started going full speed ahead and then all of a sudden (no thuds or KABOOMS), just comes to a complete halt in about 5 secs. They passengers and FA's are all shocked. The pilots say nothing and start drifting back towards the gate. Finally after about 1/2 hour : "Sorry L & G, a RED LIGHT came on in the cockpit and we decided to check it out." The passengers deplaned and the flight was delayed about 4 hours as they had to change the equipment. I was going to miss my Delta connection in FRA to Bombay and decided to hold out. The ground staff wanted to get me on board, so they comped me an upgrade on the ATL-FRA sector and said that they would put me on LH or AI in FRA back connecting to Bombay in Business since I was confirmed in Business on their flight. I folded. BTW, i did miss my connection in FRA and had a choice of LH coach (as there was no time (20 min to change terminals) or AI business. I'm took the LH coach seat since the AI flight was later and already delayed.

Few months back, UA DC-10 from ORD-SFO comes to within 20 feet above the water before landing and SFO and starts climbing back up. It seemed as if he was climbing at a 45 degree angle. I was impressed that the old DC-10 could still do that. We circled around and landed. Apparently, there was another plane on the runway. Why? I have no idea. Glad to still be here.