Aviation

Qantas Takes a Stand: Flag Badge Incident Fuels Crew Standards Discussion

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In recent news, there has been a debate surrounding Qantas crew members wearing the Palestinian flag on their uniforms as a display of solidarity for the Palestinian cause. The airline, however, has taken a firm stance, affirming its commitment to strict regulations on crew standards.

After photos of the Qantas crew wearing the Palestinian flag badges gained attention online, the airline reportedly engaged in conversations with the individuals involved, particularly with Ms. Emma Ale, one of the stewardesses. Qantas clarified its policy, stating that staff members are allowed to wear flag badges only if they are fluent in the national language of the country.

A statement from a Qantas spokesperson emphasized that cabin crew are not permitted to wear any badges unless they are part of the approved uniform, such as a name tag. The airline emphasized its dedication to creating a safe and respectful environment for every passenger on board.

Following the incident, Emma Ale, the Qantas stewardess who wore the Palestinian flag badge, reached out for support in dealing with the person who reported her to the media. In a plea for assistance, she expressed concern about the potential impact on her career. Despite the ongoing situation and uncertainty about the future of her employment, she remains determined to fight against the individual who disclosed the information to the media.

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.”