Cathay Pacific Airways recently faced a significant challenge with its Airbus A350 fleet. Following an unscheduled inspection triggered by a flight turnback on September 2, 2024, the airline identified 15 of its A350s that required the replacement of a problematic engine component.
By Aditya M
The Incident
The issue came to light when a Cathay Pacific A350-1000, bound for Zurich, had to return to Hong Kong shortly after takeoff due to a cockpit alert warning of a fire in one of its Rolls-Royce XWB-97 engines. The crew quickly extinguished the fire and safely returned to base. This incident prompted Cathay Pacific to conduct a thorough inspection of its entire A350 fleet, which includes 30 A350-900s and 18 A350-1000s.
The Inspection and Findings
Within 24 hours, Cathay Pacific completed the inspection of all 48 A350s in its fleet. The airline discovered that 15 aircraft had engine components that needed replacement. The specific component has not been publicly disclosed, but sources suggest it may be related to deformed or degraded flexible fuel lines.
Repair and Replacement Process
Cathay Pacific acted swiftly to address the issue. As of the latest update, three of the 15 affected aircraft have already undergone successful repairs. The airline expects all affected planes to return to service by September 7, 2024. The repairs are being carried out with the engines remaining on-wing, which minimizes downtime and disruption to the airline's operations.
Impact on Operations
The discovery of the engine component issue led to the cancellation of at least 34 round-trip flights. However, Cathay Pacific has managed to secure the necessary spare parts and is working diligently to minimize further disruptions. The airline has assured passengers that long-haul flights should not be affected.
Industry Response
The incident has drawn attention from other major operators of the A350-1000 and A350-900, who are now inspecting their fleets for similar issues. Rolls-Royce, the engine manufacturer, is collaborating with Cathay Pacific, Airbus, and relevant authorities to support the investigation and ensure the safety of the aircraft.
Conclusion
Cathay Pacific's prompt and transparent handling of the A350 engine component issue highlights the airline's commitment to safety and operational efficiency. While the incident has caused some disruption, the airline's proactive measures and swift repairs demonstrate its resilience and dedication to maintaining high standards. As the aviation industry continues to monitor the situation, Cathay Pacific's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous maintenance and swift response to potential safety concerns.
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