Overview
An Air Atlanta Icelandic Boeing 747-400, registration TF-AMU, operating flight CC-4400 from Hong Kong, China, to Dubai Al Maktoum, UAE, experienced an engine failure during its initial climb from Hong Kong International Airport. The incident resulted in an emergency return to the departure airport.
Key Details
• Aircraft:
• Type: Boeing 747-400
• Registration: TF-AMU
• Operator: Air Atlanta Icelandic
• Engine Type: General Electric CF6
• Flight Number: CC-4400
• Route: Hong Kong (HKG) → Dubai Al Maktoum (DWC)
• Date: January 16th, 2025
• Passengers and Crew: Details not provided
• Location of Incident: Hong Kong International Airport, during initial climb from Runway 07R.
Sequence of Events
1. Departure:
• The aircraft departed from Hong Kong’s Runway 07R en route to Dubai Al Maktoum.
2. Engine Failure:
• Shortly after takeoff and upon handoff to departure control, the crew experienced a failure of one of the four CF6 engines, which was described as a suspected engine stall.
3. Emergency Response:
• The crew stopped the climb at FL090 (approximately 9,000 feet).
• Emergency protocols were initiated, and the aircraft entered a holding pattern to dump fuel and reduce weight for landing.
4. Safe Return:
• After fuel jettisoning, the aircraft returned to Hong Kong and landed safely on Runway 07L approximately 90 minutes after departure.
Investigation and Findings
• Initial Observations:
• Hong Kong emergency services reported the engine failure as a suspected stall, which is characterized by interrupted airflow through the engine.
• No additional technical details have been disclosed at this time.
• Aircraft Status:
• The aircraft remained grounded at Hong Kong International Airport approximately 9 hours after its return for further inspection and maintenance.
• Ongoing Investigation:
• Maintenance records and operational data are being reviewed to determine the cause of the engine failure.
• The investigation will focus on the affected CF6 engine, including its recent maintenance history and in-flight performance.
Impact and Response
• Passenger and Crew Safety:
• All passengers and crew safely disembarked after the return to Hong Kong.
• Operational Impact:
• The flight was delayed, with cargo or passenger re-accommodation likely required for onward connections.
• Preventive Measures:
• Air Atlanta Icelandic and engine specialists will collaborate to identify and address any systemic issues to prevent similar occurrences.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the robustness of safety procedures in the aviation industry. The crew’s prompt actions ensured the safety of all on board despite the critical nature of the engine failure. Further investigation will provide additional insights into the root cause of the failure and any necessary remedial measures.
Disclaimer
This report is based on information available as of January 16th, 2025. If you are the rightful owner of any associated media or details and wish for them to be removed, please contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
