On March 6, 2025, a Cathay Pacific Airways flight operating a Boeing 777-300ER (Reg. B-KQV) from Hong Kong to Milan encountered a significant technical issue that forced the aircraft to divert to Lanzhou, a city in northwestern China’s Gansu Province. The flight, identified as CX233, departed Hong Kong International Airport shortly after midnight, with an original takeoff time logged at 12:55 AM local time. The intended destination was Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy, where it was scheduled to arrive at 7:40 AM local time. However, approximately four and a half hours into the journey, the cockpit crew detected a failure in the aircraft’s left engine, prompting an immediate decision to reroute the plane to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew on board.
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The diversion led the Boeing 777 to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, where it made an emergency landing at 5:35 AM on March 6. To facilitate a safe landing, the aircraft jettisoned approximately 55 tonnes of fuel, a standard procedure to reduce weight and mitigate risks during such unscheduled landings. Cathay Pacific later confirmed that the diversion was executed in accordance with established safety protocols, underscoring that the decision prioritized passenger and crew well-being above all else. The airline issued a formal apology to affected passengers, acknowledging the inconvenience caused and expressing gratitude for their understanding during the ordeal.
Following the landing in Lanzhou, the aircraft remained grounded for assessments and repairs. Cathay Pacific arranged for a replacement aircraft to continue the journey, with the substitute flight departing Lanzhou at 9:20 AM on March 7. This rescheduled flight was expected to arrive in Milan later that afternoon, significantly delaying the original itinerary but ensuring passengers reached their destination. The incident highlighted the complexities of long-haul aviation, where technical challenges can necessitate rapid and decisive action far from the intended route.
The Boeing 777-300ER involved in this event is part of Cathay Pacific’s fleet of 36 such aircraft, known for their reliability on long-haul routes like Hong Kong to Milan, which spans over 5,700 miles. Despite the engine failure, the aircraft’s design allowed it to operate safely on a single engine, a testament to its engineering and the training of the flight crew. Reports indicate that ground control had initially suggested diverting to Chengdu, another Chinese city, but the crew deemed Lanzhou a more suitable option, though specific reasons for this choice were not disclosed. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s flag carrier, has faced scrutiny in recent years over operational challenges, but this incident underscores its commitment to safety. The airline has not released detailed information about the cause of the engine failure, though it is likely under investigation by aviation authorities. Passengers affected by the diversion were supported by the airline, which worked to minimize disruptions. This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the critical importance of preparedness and response in maintaining passenger trust and safety on international routes.