LOS ANGELES- The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) initiated an investigation following the discovery of a tool inside the engine of a Qantas (QF) Airbus A380.
As per the ATSB, the compressor turning tool was located behind the fan blades of the number one engine on the Airbus A380 (-842) during a maintenance inspection at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on February 2, 2024. The debris from foreign objects was detected by mechanics inspecting LAX.
Missing Tool Found in Qantas A380 Engine
As outlined in an investigation report available on the ATSB website, the tool in question was initially reported as lost on December 6, 2023.
The ATSB has specified that it anticipates issuing a final report post-July 1, 2024, once the investigation is concluded.
In the event that a critical safety issue is identified during the investigation, the ATSB has committed to promptly notifying relevant parties to facilitate the implementation of necessary safety measures.
As reported by the website Paddle Your Own Kanoo (PYOK), Qantas expressed its utmost seriousness regarding the incident. The Australian flag carrier confirmed that it promptly informed the ATSB upon discovering the tool.
According to Qantas, the tool in question is a flexible plastic piece and had no impact on the engine’s operation, as conveyed to PYOK.
The specific Airbus A380 involved, registered as VH-OQI, was delivered to New South Wales-based Qantas on January 13, 2011, and is capable of carrying 485 passengers.
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