Metal fatigue blamed for air bridge collapse
The Airport Authority of Hong Kong (AA) has vowed to improve attention to maintenance at Hong Kong International Airport following an air-bridge collapse on the northwest concourse in April.
The authority has earmarked more than HK$80 million to overhaul all air bridges at Terminal 1 – a programme scheduled for completion in phases by 2015.
It is also is planning an overall review of maintenance schedules for other airport facilities.
Metal fatigue, caused by a manufacturing defect, was the root cause of the air bridge collapse, according to an investigation task force.
Following the incident, the AA suspended nine bridges of the same design. As a safety precaution, four bridges remain suspended until they are thoroughly examined, repaired or replaced, while the others have returned to normal operation.
The collapse of the air bridge ripped a door from a Cathay Pacific A330 waiting to depart for Japan. No passengers were hurt, although a technician was injured.
Ian Jarrett
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