In response to an in-flight engine fire on a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 aircraft powered by a Rolls Royce Trent XWB engine, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has mandated a one-time fleet inspection of fuel hoses for certain A350 aircraft. This incident has led to a significant disruption for Cathay Pacific, with the airline inspecting engines on all 48 of its A350 planes and identifying the need for engine fuel line replacements. The urgency of this situation has prompted EASA to take action to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft in the future.
Regulatory Response
EASA’s requirement for inspections will impact A350-1000s powered by the XWB-97 engine, totaling 86 planes globally. The inspections must be completed within the next three to 30 days, depending on individual engine history. While Airbus has yet to respond to requests for comment, it is clear that this issue has sparked a ripple effect across the industry, prompting other airlines to take precautionary measures.
Industry Impact
Following Cathay Pacific’s findings, airlines such as Singapore Airlines and Japan Airlines have initiated inspections on their respective A350 fleets. Singapore Airlines, with 64 A350 aircraft powered by the XWB-84 engine variant, has conducted inspections without disruption to its flight schedule. Japan Airlines, on the other hand, found no defects during its inspections of fuel lines on its A350-1000s and is now assessing its A350-900 fleet. Delta Air Lines, the sole U.S. operator of the A350, remains unaffected by EASA’s requirement due to its use of a different engine variant.
The recent engine fire incident on a Cathay Pacific A350 aircraft has underscored the importance of regular fleet inspections to ensure the safety and reliability of Airbus A350 aircraft. Airlines and regulatory agencies must work together to prioritize safety and mitigate potential risks. The proactive measures taken by Cathay Pacific and other carriers serve as a reminder of the critical role that fleet inspections play in maintaining the integrity of commercial aviation.