Hong Kong probe reveals Cathay Airbus engine failure due to ruptured fuel hose

(Reuters) – A probe by Hong Kong’s aviation accident investigation agency revealed Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A350 engine failed in-flight due to a damaged fuel hose which also showed signs of a fire, the agency’s report stated on Thursday.

Hong Kong’s Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) found a ruptured fuel hose in the second engine of the Cathay Pacific-operated A350 jet, with five additional secondary fuel hoses also showing signs of wear and tear.

“Coupled with other contributing factors, such as the presence of oxygen and an ignition (heat) source, this could result in a fire that could spread to the surrounding area,” the report stated.

“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.”

Cathay Pacific began inspecting all its Airbus A350 jets after passenger flight CX383 received an engine fire warning shortly after take-off on Sept. 2. It was the first component of its type to suffer such a failure on any A350 aircraft worldwide, Cathay said at the time.