An engine fire on a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350, traced back to a fuel leak, has prompted calls for immediate action.
Investigators highlight the potential for severe aircraft damage due to undetected fuel leaks.
The incident occurred on 2 September when a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 experienced an engine fire during takeoff from Hong Kong to Zurich. The flight was carrying 332 passengers and 16 crew members.
The fire prompted the flight crew to issue a mayday call and utilize a fire extinguisher before safely returning to the airport after about an hour in the air.
A preliminary investigation by the Hong Kong Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) revealed that the engine fire resulted from a ruptured secondary fuel manifold hose.
The investigation identified black soot and burn marks, indicating a fire had occurred in the engine. The AAIA’s initial report stresses the importance of prompt detection and rectification of fuel leaks to avoid extensive damage.
Following the incident, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) mandated inspections of engines using similar fuel pipes.
EASA also called for immediate removal of any potentially compromised fuel pipes, to mitigate the risk of future incidents.
Rolls-Royce, the engine manufacturer, announced its collaboration with regulators to support ongoing investigations.
In response to the incident, Cathay Pacific initiated a comprehensive inspection of their Airbus A350 fleet, ensuring compliance with EASA directives.
Cathay Pacific reported that its inspections cleared the aircraft for operation, allowing flights to resume safely.
Rolls-Royce confirmed that the aircraft’s systems effectively detected and managed the issue, aligning with procedural expectations in such incidents.
The manufacturer continues to work closely with regulators, reinforcing its commitment to aviation safety and investigation support.
An AAIA spokesperson underscored the preliminary nature of the report, as the investigation team further examines data to determine the occurrence’s causes.
The incident underscores the critical need for robust inspection protocols and quick response measures in aviation engineering.
Industry stakeholders advocate for enhanced safety guidelines to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The engine fire on the Cathay Pacific Airbus underscores the urgent need for stringent safety measures in aviation.
Ensuring rapid detection and resolution of technical issues is essential for safeguarding passengers and aircraft.
The Cathay Pacific engine incident highlights the critical importance of rigorous safety inspections.
Swift action and adherence to safety directives are vital in preventing similar occurrences.
