Cathay Pacific, the flag airline of Hong Kong, is currently undergoing an extensive inspection of its entire fleet of Airbus A350s following engine issues that have impacted the jet. This investigation has resulted in the delay of dozens of flights as the airline works to ensure the safety and reliability of its aircraft.
The engine troubles were first identified on flight CX383 from Hong Kong to Zurich, which experienced an engine component failure forcing the plane to return to Hong Kong. This incident marked the first of its kind on any A350 aircraft worldwide, prompting Cathay Pacific to conduct a thorough examination of its 48-plane fleet, revealing the need for replacement of several engine components.
By Tuesday afternoon, the airline had identified 15 planes requiring repairs, with three already rectified and plans in place for all impacted aircraft to resume flights by Saturday. To facilitate the inspection and repairs, Cathay Pacific had to cancel 24 flights on Monday and Tuesday, with 10 regional return flights on Wednesday also being affected.
The engine issue was reportedly related to a gasoline nozzle malfunction, which is responsible for distributing fuel into the engine. Both the aircraft manufacturer, Rolls-Royce, and relevant aviation regulators were promptly informed of the problems by Cathay Pacific. The A350 family is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB turbofan engines, and the British aerospace company is working closely with the airline and authorities to investigate the issue.
Despite the challenges faced by Cathay Pacific, industry experts like Shukor Yusof maintain that the A350 remains a very safe aircraft, with logistical delays involving components and labor shortages being the primary obstacle. Other airlines using the A350 may also be impacted to varying degrees, further complicating the situation.
The incident comes in the wake of high-profile issues faced by Boeing, including the structural problems that led to the halt of testing on its 777X aircraft. The American aircraft manufacturer has been grappling with safety concerns following a series of incidents, highlighting the critical importance of stringent safety measures in the aviation industry.
As the investigation into the engine faults on Cathay Pacific’s A350 fleet continues, the airline is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers. By conducting thorough inspections and implementing necessary repairs, Cathay Pacific aims to restore normal operations and maintain its reputation as a reliable carrier in the global aviation industry.
