Aviation

Boeing’s newest widebody jet 777-9 to make debut at Wings India 2024

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In a momentous event for aviation enthusiasts and industry stakeholders, Boeing, the renowned American aircraft manufacturer, is poised to unveil its latest widebody aircraft.The 777-9, at the highly anticipated Wings India 2024 in Hyderabad from January 18 to 21.

The majestic 777-9 is scheduled to touch down in Hyderabad on January 16, setting the stage for an immersive experience for attendees as it takes center stage for static display on January 18 and 19.

The unveiling holds special significance for Air India, which is set to receive ten of these state-of-the-art 777-9s. This acquisition is part of the airline’s substantial order placed in 2023, strategically designed to fortify its fleet and cater to the escalating demand for international air travel in the rapidly expanding South Asian market, as highlighted in Boeing’s press release.

Wings India 2024 promises an immersive experience for attendees, as Boeing plans to showcase the 777X passenger interior in an engaging display. Additionally, the newly merged Air India Express will take center stage with static and flying displays of its 737-8, featuring a captivating Kalamkari-inspired tail design, paying homage to the traditional weaving patterns of the Deccan region.

Boeing’s commitment to India goes beyond the showcase of its latest aircraft. The company has entered into a partnership with GMR Aero Technic to establish a Boeing Converted Freighter line in Hyderabad. This strategic move aligns with Boeing’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and pilot training programs in India, with a substantial $100 million investment. This initiative is poised to support the country’s burgeoning demand for skilled pilots over the next two decades, underlining Boeing’s long-term vision for aviation growth in India.

Aviation

Lost Tool Found in Qantas A380 After 34 Flights

An Australian Transportation Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigation recently revealed that a Qantas A380 operated 34 flights with a 1.25-meter nylon tool lodged in one of its engines.

This turning tool, used during borescope inspections to rotate the intermediate-pressure compressor, was left behind during scheduled maintenance at Los Angeles on December 6, 2023. It remained inside the engine until it was discovered by maintenance staff during a subsequent check at Los Angeles on January 1, 2024.

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The ATSB report highlights two critical lapses. First, maintenance engineers failed to notice the tool during final checks for foreign objects after the borescope inspection. Second, the lost tool procedure was not activated when the tool was identified as missing.

The certifying engineer ultimately cleared the aircraft for service without accounting for the misplaced tool. During the time qantas films the tool was inside, the A380 completed 34 flight cycles, accumulating nearly 294 hours without any noticeable effect on engine performance.

Although the tool was deformed by high-energy airflow within the engine, there was no reported damage to the engine itself. ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell commented.

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“This incident underscores the importance of following established maintenance protocols. Engineers missed the tool during foreign object checks, and the required lost tool procedure wasn’t started after realizing the tool was missing.”

Following the investigation, the airline issued a safety directive, urging all engineering and tool storage teams to adhere strictly to these protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

A qantas spokesperson stated, “While the tool didn’t impact engine performance, we take this incident very seriously. It is critical to follow the correct lost tool procedures.”