AAIA classifies Cathay engine component failure as 'serious incident'

The Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) has classified the recent engine component failure on an Airbus operated by Cathay Pacific, as a "serious incident," that could have led to "extensive damage," according to its investigation preliminary report. 

This follows an incident on 2 September, when a Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to Zurich Airport, Switzerland, took off at midnight. It carried a total of 348 persons, including 332 passengers and 16 crew members. 

Shortly after liftoff, with the landing gear retracting, the flight crew received an “ENG FIRE” warning for the no. 2 engine. The crew promptly shut down the engine and discharged a fire extinguisher. They initially declared a MAYDAY4 but later downgraded the status to PAN5. They also initiated fuel jettison after coordinating with HKG ATC to meet landing weight limits. The aircraft landed at 01:40:29. No crew or passengers were injured. 

The post-flight examination of the no. 2 engine conducted by the AAIA revealed that the steel braided sheath of the fuel hose connecting to the no.17 fuel spray nozzle had a rupture, evidenced by a discernible hole in the hose. “Additionally, black soot was observed on the aft section of the core engine, indicating signs of a fire. Burn marks were also noted on the underside of the two thrust reverser cowls." 

Further inspection suggested that fuel directed to the fuel spray nozzle could leak through the ruptured secondary fuel manifold hose. Coupled with other contributing factors such as the presence of oxygen and an heat source, this could result in a fire that could spread to the surrounding area. “If not promptly detected and addressed, this situation, along with further failures, could escalate into a more serious engine fire, potentially causing extensive damage to the aircraft.”

The report provides factual information established in the investigation’s early evidence-collection phase. It aims to provide timely information to both the aviation industry and the general public.

At the time of this preliminary report publication, a comprehensive examination and analysis of the retained aircraft parts, including the secondary fuel manifold hoses in question, is being conducted at an overseas testing facility, with AAIA investigator present to oversee the activities.

The AAIA has recommended the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to require Rolls-Royce to develop continuing airworthiness information, including but not limited to, inspection requirements of the relevant engines to ensure their serviceability. 

Meanwhile, the AAIA said it will collect the detailed analysis of the data and information to determine the circumstances, causes and contributing factors of this serious incident. It will also aid in identifying areas that need further investigation and/or lines of investigation to be pursued.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Cathay Pacific for a statement. 

Don’t miss: Will Cathay's reputation post cancellation of flights spill over to Airbus?

Recently, Cathay Pacific apologised for cancelling 24 return flights and promised to inspect its A350 fleet due to the recent engine component failure, which had forced the airline to cancel 24 return flights on 3 September. In its statement seen by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, Cathay said 15 aircraft were identified with engine fuel lines that required replacement.

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