Cathay Pacific A350 Fleet Repair Progress: 45 Flight PairsCanceled, Full Resumption Expected by September 7th
HONGKONG, Sept. 4, 2024 – Cathay Pacific Airways has announced that the repair progress of its A350 fleet ison track, with full resumption of operations expected by September 7th. The airline has confirmed that six of the 15 A350 aircraft requiringengine oil pipe replacement have been repaired and are back in service. The remaining nine aircraft are undergoing repairs and are expected to be operational by this Saturday.
In addition to the ongoing repairs, Cathay Pacific has announced the cancellation of an additional11 pairs of short-haul flights between September 5th and 7th. This brings the total number of canceled flights to 45 pairs between September 2nd and 7th. The airline has stated that itdoes not anticipate further cancellations.
The issue stems from a global first instance of an engine component failure on an A350 aircraft, leading to the grounding of 15 Cathay Pacific A350s. The affected aircraft are equipped with Rolls-Royce engines, and the airline has been working closely withthe engine manufacturer to address the problem.
The incident has sparked concerns in China, where four airlines operate a total of 78 Airbus A350 aircraft. While all these aircraft are equipped with Rolls-Royce engines, the specific engine models vary between airlines. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC)has launched an investigation to assess whether similar inspections are necessary for A350 aircraft operating in mainland China.
Impact on Passengers and Operations
The cancellations have caused significant disruption for passengers, with many experiencing flight delays and changes. Cathay Pacific has been working to accommodate affected passengers, offering alternative flights, refunds, and rebooking options.
The airline has apologized for the inconvenience caused by the cancellations and has assured passengers that it is working diligently to restore full operations as soon as possible.
Global Response and Investigation
The incident has drawn attention from aviation authorities and industry experts worldwide. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued an airworthiness directive requiring airlines to inspect the affected engine component on all A350 aircraft.
Rolls-Royce has also launched an investigation into the cause of the engine failure. The company has stated that it is working closely with Airbus and airlines to address the issue and ensure the safety ofits engines.
Looking Ahead
While the A350 fleet repairs are progressing well, the incident highlights the importance of rigorous maintenance and safety protocols in the aviation industry. The CAAC’s investigation will likely provide valuable insights into the potential risks and necessary precautions for A350 aircraft operating in China.
Cathay Pacific’s commitment to resolving the issue and restoring full operations demonstrates the airline’s dedication to passenger safety and operational efficiency. The airline’s actions, along with the ongoing investigations by aviation authorities and engine manufacturers, are crucial in ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of the A350aircraft fleet.
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