ALERT EU orders Airbus A350 inspections after Rolls-Royce engine catches fire

Cathay Pacific, a major operator of the A350 aircraft, has grounded 48 planes following a Zurich-bound flight that had to return shortly after takeoff due to a serious issue with one of the engines. Investigations revealed that a flexible fuel injection line in the Rolls-Royce XWB-97 engine was damaged. As a result, inspections detected defective fuel lines that necessitated replacement on 15 A350s, leading to numerous flight cancellations across Asia. The safety incident is currently being investigated by Hong Kong's Air Accident Investigation Authority, which is implementing precautionary measures to prevent future occurrences. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is also involved, conducting inspections to identify any potentially compromised fuel hoses and will soon issue an Emergency Airworthiness Directive detailing compliance actions. From a transportation expert's perspective, this incident highlights the critical importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance within aviation operations. The swift response from both Cathay Pacific and regulatory authorities emphasizes a proactive approach to safety, which is essential in maintaining consumer confidence in air travel. Moreover, the situation underscores the need for manufacturers and airlines to invest in robust systems that ensure the reliability of high-pressure components, as failures can lead to operational disruptions and safety concerns.