Fire-damaged Air Busan A321 inspected after decision not to remove fuel

Korean investigators probing the Air Busan Airbus A321 fire at Gimhae airport have started an on-site inspection of the aircraft, having opted against removing the fuel beforehand. The aircraft, which was preparing for departure to Hong Kong on 28 January, suffered extensive damage to its fuselage. It had been docked at international apron stand 55L which, according to the aeronautical information publication for Gimhae airport, is almost adjacent to a fire station located just 150m to the south. While the wings were untouched, the aircraft’s tanks were loaded with 16,300kg (35,900lb) of fuel, presenting a potential explosion hazard to investigators. Korean accident investigators carried out a risk assessment in co-operation with French counterparts and other specialised agencies, including a safety check of the fuselage and cargo compartment. Although the decision was made not to drain the fuel, other components such as oxygen tanks have been removed, and passenger baggage retrieved from the cargo hold. As a result, the Korean transport ministry says, the on-site inspection commenced on 3 February. “Collected evidence was photographed, catalogued, classified and visually analysed,” it adds. This evidence will be transferred to investigative facilities for identification and examination.<br/>