Cathay Pacific Airways recently faced an issue with one of its Airbus A350 aircraft, causing the entire fleet to undergo inspections. The incident involved a leak in the fuel system that led to a brief engine fire on a Zurich-bound A350-1000, resulting in the identification of 15 planes requiring component replacements.
The aviation community closely monitored the situation, with concerns initially triggering a drop in Rolls-Royce's shares, the engine manufacturer for the A350 fleet. However, after routine checks, repairs, and reassuring statements from both Cathay Pacific and industry analysts, Rolls-Royce's shares bounced back, indicating eased worries over potential implications for the global fleet. Despite disruptions to flight schedules and cancellations, other major operators of the A350 series continued to fly their aircraft without grounding them.
Rolls-Royce, together with Cathay Pacific and Airbus, collaborated to address the issue and facilitate inspections and repairs where necessary. As investigations into the root cause of the engine failure continued, the incident underscored the importance of stringent safety protocols and prompt responses to ensure the airworthiness of commercial aircraft. Airlines like Japan Airlines and Qatar Airways remained vigilant, monitoring developments and seeking further information from engine manufacturers to maintain the safety and reliability of their fleets.