Cathay Airbus defect could lead to ‘extensive’ damage, Hong Kong probe reveals

The investigation found that a ruptured fuel hose connected to one of the engine’s fuel spray nozzles caused the fire. 

A preliminary investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) has revealed that a defect in a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350-1041 could have led to "extensive damage" following an engine fire during a flight from Hong Kong to Zurich on 2 September.

The aircraft, carrying 332 passengers and 16 crew members, experienced an engine fire warning for the No. 2 engine shortly after takeoff.  The flight crew swiftly followed emergency procedures, shutting down the engine and deploying a fire extinguisher. After the fire warning cleared, the crew downgraded the initial MAYDAY to PAN status and safely returned the aircraft to Hong Kong. No injuries were reported.

The investigation found that a ruptured fuel hose connected to one of the engine’s fuel spray nozzles caused the fire. 

Additionally, several other fuel hoses showed signs of wear and structural damage, raising concerns about potential fuel leaks.

The AAIA warned that this defect, if not addressed, could have led to a more severe engine fire and significant damage to the aircraft.

It said that the findings are still tentative as the investigation continues to analyse the incident to prevent future occurrences.

"The investigation team is conducting a detailed analysis of the data and information collected in order to determine the circumstances and causes of this occurrence with a view to preventing a recurrence in conjunction with identifying areas for further investigation or lines of inquiry to follow up," a spokesperson for the AAIA said.