09 February 2012

IMechE reassures public over superjumbo safety

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) has moved to reassure airline passengers following reports that cracks had been found in the wings of a Qantas Airbus A380 superjumbo.

Philippa Oldham, head of transport at the IMechE said: "It is welcome that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is calling for checks on all Airbus A380 as safety has to be the biggest priority for all airlines.

"It is important to note that these cracks are very small and will be monitored by the airlines. They are unlikely to affect aircraft operation.

"Airlines approved by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) have very strict regulations and require there to be rigorous inspection procedures so an aircraft would not be allowed to fly unless it was deemed to be fully airworthy by the authority or their delegates."

Air safety officials extended checks for Airbus A380 wing cracks to the entire 68-strong superjumbo fleet yesterday (8 February).

The move came after the Australian flag carrier grounded one of its planes for up to a week following the discovery of 36 separate cracks in wing parts.

Author
Ken Hurst

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