Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways recently grounded its Airbus A350 fleet due to suspected deformation and deterioration of fuel pipes discovered from a flight from Hong Kong to Zurich that was forced to return, according to sources familiar with the matter. The airline instructed its engineers to inspect the flexible hoses that supply fuel to the engines for any abnormalities, deformations, twists, bulges, or deterioration as a precautionary measure.

In the wake of Cathay Pacific's decision, other airlines operating A350 aircraft have taken varying approaches to address potential concerns. Japan Airlines (JAL) announced that it would inspect the engines of all five of its Airbus A350-1000 aircraft for potential issues, although the inspections were not instructed by Rolls-Royce, the engine manufacturer. JAL has been in contact with Cathay Pacific regarding the matter and is awaiting further communication from Rolls-Royce.

Singapore Airlines, which operates around 64 A350-900 aircraft, has not yet provided a comment on whether it plans to conduct similar inspections.

Chinese media reported that the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) is assessing whether inspections are necessary for A350 engines on aircraft operated by Chinese airlines.

Cathay Pacific discovered the engine component issue on an A350 during a flight to Zurich on April 2nd. The affected A350-1000 is powered by Rolls-Royce's "XWB-97" engines. The airline has since identified the same problematic engine components on 15 of its A350-900 and A350-1000 aircraft, requiring replacement. However, no other airlines have reported similar issues thus far.

Rolls-Royce stated that it is "working closely with the airline, aircraft manufacturer, and relevant authorities to support the investigation into this matter." Airbus, in turn, directed inquiries to Rolls-Royce and Cathay Pacific for comment.

Cathay Pacific has successfully repaired three of the affected aircraft and expects to fully resume operations by April 7th. The airline has canceled an additional 20 flights scheduled for April 4th, on top of the 48 flights already canceled since the issue was discovered.